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10 Best Sniper Scopes 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

ATN Thor 5 Smart HD Thermal Scope w/Ultra Sensitive Gen 5 Sensor, Video Rec, Ballistic Calculator, RAV

The ATN Thor 5 Smart HD Thermal Scope is designed for hunters who want advanced technology to improve spotting and shooting accuracy, especially in low-light or nighttime conditions. Its magnification range of 3-12x offers flexibility for different distances, while the thermal sensor with a 320x240 resolution and 12-micron pixel size helps detect heat signatures clearly. The high-resolution OLED display enhances visibility with richer colors, which makes it easier to identify targets.

#2
9.4 score

Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm First Focal Plane (F1/FFP) 34mm Tube Durable Precise Waterproof Fogproof Hunting Gun Scope, Illuminated TReMoR3 Reticle

The Nightforce ATACR 5-25x56mm F1 is a high-quality sniper scope designed for serious hunters and tactical shooters who need precision and durability. Its wide magnification range (5-25x) allows for flexible use, from medium to long distances. The large 56mm objective lens and advanced ED glass provide bright, clear images even in low light, which is essential for spotting targets early or in dim conditions. Featuring a first focal plane reticle, the scope keeps holdover points accurate at any zoom level, helping with precise shot placement without needing mental adjustments. The illuminated TReMoR3 reticle assists with fast target acquisition and wind calls, making it easier to shoot accurately in varying conditions. Eye relief at about 3.5 inches is adequate, providing comfortable viewing distance while protecting your eye from recoil. The rugged aluminum body and waterproof, fogproof design ensure this scope can handle tough environments reliably. Its turrets offer precise adjustments with fine click values, allowing for careful tuning of elevation and windage.

Rating
9.4
Reticle
Eye Relief

Most important from
30 reviews

Reticle
Illuminated reticle enhances target acquisition in low light conditions, making it easier to shoot accurately at dawn or dusk.
Eye Relief
Eye relief and rugged construction ensure comfortable use and resilience against recoil during extended sessions.
#3
9.1 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 versatile and reliable choice for hunters and long-range shooters who need variable magnification from 3x to 15x, allowing clear target acquisition at various distances. Its 44mm objective lens provides bright, sharp images, especially with Leupold's high-definition lenses and the hydrophobic Guard-ion coating that keeps the glass clear in wet or dirty conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle is easy to see in different lighting, which helps with quick target alignment. The side focus parallax adjustment allows shooters to fine-tune focus for precision without changing their shooting position.

Rating
9.1
Magnification
Reticle
Parallax Adjustment

Most important from
345 reviews

Magnification
This magnification range covers typical hunting distances effectively, balancing versatility with practical usability.
Reticle
The reticle design is well thought out, aiding quick and precise target alignment, and the scope reliably holds zero.
Parallax Adjustment
The scope delivers exceptionally clear visuals and easy adjustments, making target acquisition straightforward.

Top 10 Best Sniper Scopes 2025 in the United States

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
Parallax Adjustment: Side focus
Field of View: 38.3 feet
Eye Relief: Good
Turrets: CDS-ZL2 turret, 2 revolutions, lock

ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

Magnification: 6-36x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: Illum. ZF-MOAi Reticle
Turrets: Ballistic Stop, External Locking Windage

Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope - EBR-7C (MOA) Reticle

Magnification: 5-25x
Objective Lens Diameter: 56mm
Reticle: EBR-7C MOA
Parallax Adjustment: Side parallax with range markings
Eye Relief: 3.6 Inches
Turrets: Up to 85 MOA, RevStop Zero
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Buying Guide for the Best Sniper Scopes

Choosing the right sniper scope can significantly enhance your shooting accuracy and overall experience. It's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced shooter, knowing what to look for in a sniper scope will help you make an informed decision. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting a sniper scope and how to navigate them.
MagnificationMagnification refers to how much closer the target appears through the scope compared to the naked eye. This is crucial because it determines how well you can see your target at various distances. Scopes with lower magnification (1-4x) are suitable for short-range shooting, offering a wider field of view and easier target acquisition. Medium magnification (5-12x) is ideal for mid-range shooting, providing a balance between field of view and target detail. High magnification (12x and above) is best for long-range shooting, allowing you to see distant targets clearly but with a narrower field of view. Choose the magnification based on the typical distances you plan to shoot.
Objective Lens DiameterThe objective lens diameter is the size of the front lens of the scope, 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 (40-56mm) allow more light, making them better for low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. However, they can also make the scope heavier and bulkier. Smaller diameters (20-40mm) are lighter and more compact but may not perform as well in low light. Consider where and when you'll be shooting to determine the right objective lens size for you.
ReticleThe reticle, or crosshair, is the aiming point you see when looking through the scope. Different reticle designs serve various purposes. Simple crosshairs are good for general shooting, while more complex designs like mil-dot or BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) reticles help with range estimation and bullet drop compensation. Illuminated reticles are useful in low-light conditions. Choose a reticle based on your shooting style and the level of precision you need.
Parallax AdjustmentParallax adjustment helps ensure that the reticle stays on target even if you move your eye slightly. This is important for long-range shooting where precision is critical. Scopes with adjustable parallax allow you to fine-tune the focus at different distances, reducing aiming errors. Fixed parallax scopes are simpler and sufficient for short to mid-range shooting. If you plan to shoot at varying distances, especially long-range, a scope with parallax adjustment is beneficial.
Field of ViewField of view (FOV) is the width of the area you can see through the scope at a given distance, usually measured in feet at 100 yards. A wider FOV allows you to see more of the surroundings, making it easier to track moving targets and acquire new ones. Lower magnification scopes typically offer a wider FOV, while higher magnification scopes have a narrower FOV. Consider your need for situational awareness versus target detail when choosing the FOV.
Eye ReliefEye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope where you can see the full image. This is important for comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles. Longer eye relief (3-4 inches) is better for high-recoil firearms, preventing the scope from hitting your eye. Shorter eye relief (1-3 inches) can be acceptable for low-recoil rifles. Choose eye relief based on the type of rifle you use and your comfort level.
TurretsTurrets are the knobs on the scope used to adjust windage (left/right) and elevation (up/down). Precise and easy-to-use turrets are crucial for making accurate adjustments, especially at long ranges. Some scopes have exposed turrets for quick adjustments, while others have capped turrets to prevent accidental changes. Consider how often you'll need to make adjustments and whether you prefer quick access or protection from accidental movements.

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