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10 Best Scopes 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensative Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Built in LRF, Ballistic Calculator, RAV
The ATN Thor 5 LRF is a high-tech thermal scope designed primarily for hunting and long-range shooting. It features a magnification range of 3-12x, which provides versatile zoom options suitable for spotting and targeting at various distances. The 320x240 thermal sensor paired with a high-resolution OLED display delivers clear, colorful images, making it easier to detect targets day or night. One standout feature is the built-in laser rangefinder (LRF), which helps you measure the exact distance to your target, improving shot accuracy.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,272
Magnification
Durability and Weather Resistance
Most important from
61 reviews
#2
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 250 MOA DigIllum PTL Moar Reticle
The Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 scope excels in optical performance, featuring top-tier ED glass that delivers sharp and vivid images across its magnification range. With a magnification range of 5x to 25x and a 56mm objective lens, this scope is versatile for various shooting situations, offering excellent light transmission even in low light conditions. The first focal plane (FFP) reticle ensures that the reticle subtensions remain consistent at all magnifications, which is crucial for accurate shooting at varying distances.
Rating
9.1
Reticle
Durability and Weather Resistance
Most important from
31 reviews
#3
NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope, Dark Earth (C672)
The NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8x24mm scope is a high-quality option for hunters seeking a versatile and reliable gun scope. Its magnification range of 1 to 8x allows for both close-range and long-range targeting, making it a flexible choice for various hunting scenarios. The 24mm objective lens diameter ensures enough light transmission for clear images, while the 34mm tube offers robust durability and enhanced adjustment range.
Rating
9.1
Reticle
Eye Relief
Durability and Weather Resistance
Most important from
21 reviews
Top 10 Best Scopes 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensative Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Built in LRF, Ballistic Calculator, RAV
ATN Thor 5 LRF Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensative Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Built in LRF, Ballistic Calculator, RAV
Magnification: 3-12x
Reticle: customizable
Eye Relief: decent
Durability and Weather Resistance: aluminum, durable, weather-resistant
Chosen by 1272 this week
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 250 MOA DigIllum PTL Moar Reticle
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 250 MOA DigIllum PTL Moar Reticle
Magnification: 5x to 25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: MOAR
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Durability and Weather Resistance: waterproof, fogproof
NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope, Dark Earth (C672)
NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm .1 Mil-Radian Capped Turrets Daylight Visible F1/FFP FC-DMX Reticle 34mm Tube Hunting Gun Scope, Dark Earth (C672)
Magnification: 1-8x
Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm
Reticle: FC-DMX first focal plane
Eye Relief: 3.7 inches
Parallax Adjustment: Fixed at 125 meters
Durability and Weather Resistance: Weather resistant
ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MRAD Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle
ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MRAD Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle
Magnification: 6x to 36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 Millimeters
Reticle: Illum. ZF-MRi Reticle
Eye Relief: 3 Inches
Durability and Weather Resistance: 34mm tube, 1,500 g-force shock
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 25 MOA DigIllum PTL MOA-XT Reticle
Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, 25 MOA DigIllum PTL MOA-XT Reticle
Magnification: 5-25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: MOA-XT
Eye Relief: 3.5 inches
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof and fogproof
Related Products
Up to 14% off
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x56 (30mm) CDS-ZL2 Side Focus Illum. FireDot Duplex Reticle Riflescope
Magnification: 3-15x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Field of View: 38.2 ft
Reticle: Illuminated FireDot Duplex
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Durability and Weather Resistance: Waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body with 20-60x Zoom, Black
Nikon Prostaff 5 Proscope 82mm Angled Body with 20-60x Zoom, Black
Magnification: 20-60x
Objective Lens Diameter: 82mm
Durability and Weather Resistance: waterproof, fogproof
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 (C624)
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1 30mm Tube Illuminated ZeroSet Parallax Adjustable First Focal Plane Hunting Gun Scope, Moar F1 (C624)
Magnification: 4-32 x
Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
Field of View: 26.1 Feet
Reticle: MOAR
Eye Relief: 3.5 Inches
Parallax Adjustment: 11 yards to infinity
Durability and Weather Resistance: Strong
ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Gen 5 Scope w/Ballistics Calc, 12MP Resolution, Video Record, Wi-Fi, 14hrs+ Battery
Magnification: 5-25x
Eye Relief: 90 mm
Durability and Weather Resistance: Aluminum, good for outdoor use
#10
Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C (MOA) Reticle
Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C (MOA) Reticle
Magnification: 5 to 25 times
Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
Field of View: 21.2 feet
Reticle: first focal plane EBR-7C
Eye Relief: 91.4 mm
Parallax Adjustment: quick side knob adjustment
Durability and Weather Resistance: waterproof, fogproof, shockproof
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Buying Guide for the Best Scopes
When it comes to choosing a scope, whether for hunting, target shooting, or bird watching, it's important to understand the key specifications that will affect your experience and performance. The right scope can make a significant difference in accuracy, clarity, and overall satisfaction. Here are the key specs you should consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your needs.MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears compared to the naked eye. This is important because it determines how well you can see distant objects. Scopes typically have fixed or variable magnification. Fixed magnification scopes are simpler and often more durable, while variable magnification scopes offer flexibility for different distances. For general hunting, a 3-9x magnification is common, while long-range shooting might require 10x or higher. Choose based on the typical distance you will be observing or shooting.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens in millimeters. This spec is crucial because it affects the amount of light that enters the scope, impacting image brightness and clarity. Larger diameters (e.g., 50mm) allow more light and are better for low-light conditions, but they can be heavier and bulkier. Smaller diameters (e.g., 32mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in dim light. Consider where and when you will be using the scope to determine the right balance.
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 is beneficial for tracking moving targets and scanning large areas. Higher magnification typically reduces FOV, so there's a trade-off. For fast-moving targets or wide-open spaces, a larger FOV is advantageous. For stationary targets or long-range shooting, a narrower FOV might be acceptable.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Reticles come in various designs, such as duplex, mil-dot, and BDC (bullet drop compensator). The choice of reticle depends on your specific needs. A simple duplex reticle is great for general use, while a mil-dot reticle is useful for range estimation and windage adjustments. BDC reticles are designed for long-range shooting with specific calibers. Choose a reticle that matches your shooting style and requirements.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance from the eyepiece to your eye where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil firearms. Longer eye relief (e.g., 4 inches) is better for powerful rifles to prevent injury from recoil. Shorter eye relief (e.g., 3 inches) might be sufficient for low-recoil firearms or non-recoil applications like bird watching. Ensure the eye relief is adequate for your specific use to avoid discomfort or injury.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps to eliminate the apparent movement of the reticle when you move your eye slightly. This is important for precision shooting at varying distances. Scopes without parallax adjustment are typically set for a specific distance (e.g., 100 yards). Scopes with adjustable parallax allow you to fine-tune the focus for different ranges, improving accuracy. If you plan to shoot at various distances, a scope with parallax adjustment can be very beneficial.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance are crucial for ensuring your scope can withstand the elements and rough handling. Look for scopes that are waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. These features are important for maintaining performance in adverse conditions. If you will be using the scope in harsh environments or during inclement weather, prioritize these features to ensure reliability and longevity.