Last Updated on March 15, 2021
Choosing the best scope for long-range shooting is not an easy task unless you are a pro shooter. The cheap one can’t focus on the target accurately and might ruin your whole hunting or shooting trip. However, the best long range rifle scope under $500 and $1000 is within your reach and will be handsome for long-range shooting.
We’ve reviewed the 7 best long-range scopes under $1000 and best under $500 to ease your purchase. Besides, the quick buying outlines will guide you with proper information. So, discover the top scopes now!
Top Choices
Best Long Range Rifle Scope Under $500 and $1000 Reviews
01. Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 4-24×50 Long Range Riflescope
Begin our review with Vortex Optics Strike Eagle, the top long-range riflescope under $500. The greater variable magnification and objective lens diameter let you shooting for extended range easily. It is a rock-solid 30 mm single tube construction that can withstand heavy recoil and impact. The fully multi-coated lenses will provide bright and crisp images from dawn to dusk.
Strike Eagle riflescope has a built-in EBR-4 MOA reticle that maximizes remote ranging and shooting. The reticle size doesn’t change with magnification as this is a second focal plane scope. Besides, the SFP and glass-etched reticle provide optimal visually clean viewing. The device is run by a CR2032 battery. It features 11 brightness levels to adjust with lighting conditions.
This Vortex riflescope delivers waterproof and fog-proof outcomes under any weather. The equipment comes with zero reset and tactical-style turret that have clear rotational adjustment indicators for accurate dialing. The Strike Eagle riflescope is the best value long-range scope and it has some other versions that are good for close and mid-range shooting like Marlin 336.
Specifications:
- 4-24x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens diameter
- 30 mm Aluminum tube
- EBR-4 MOA reticle
- 12 MOA travel per rotation
- 1/4 MOA adjustment graduation
- 80 MOA maximum elevation and windage adjustment
- 20 yards to infinity parallax setting
- 2” to 4.3” FOV at 100 yards
- Second focal plane reticle
- Run by a CR2032 battery
- 11 brightness levels
Pros
- FMC lenses guarantee image quality
- Waterproof and fog-proof
- VIP warranty
- Best long-range rifle scope under $500
Cons
- The reticle is not very clear
- Unreliable performance sometimes
02. ATN X-Sight-4k 5-20x Pro Edition Smart Day and Night Vision Riflescope
Our second pick is the ATN X-Sight-4k Smart Hunting Riflescope. If you own this scope, you can shoot in the night like day. Because it is a true day/night vision scope. This pro version riflescope comes with various Pro features that you desire like Wi-Fi streaming (iOS & Android), Rangefinder, Bluetooth, Recoil Activated Video (RAV) record, Ballistic calculator, etc.
ATN X-Sight-4K Pro Riflescope has an intuitive menu that helps you deal with the environment like wind, angle to the target, range, etc, while hunting. The ultra HD 4K sensor with Obsidian 4 Dual Core Processor will provide high-resolution images in multiple colors. It comes with a 20000 mAh rechargeable battery that will support more than 18 hours for continuous use.
This riflescope comes with a waterproof and IP rating that makes it a truly waterproof and weather-resistant device. You can mount this on 30 mm standard rings and luckily the rings come with the package. As a night hunter, you shouldn’t miss this top best night vision rifle scope under $1000 for your next hunting trip.
Specifications:
- 5-20x magnification
- Mil-Dot reticle
- 3864×2218 sensor resolution
- 600 lp/mm system resolution
- 30 mm standard rings mount
- 1080p video record resolution
- 1280×720 HD display
- ATN Obsidian IV Dual Core
- 18+ hours nonstop use
- Ultra HD Sensor
Pros
- Decent night vision
- One-shot zeroing
- Numerous built-in pro features
- Ballistic calculator helps in determining exact ballistic
- Best long-range rifle scope with night vision under $1000
Cons
- Lots of great features make this bulky
- User manual should be improved
03. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 6-24×50 Riflescopes
Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a cheap long-range rifle scope. This is one of the best vortex long-range scope for the money. It has multiple configurations, out there 6-24×50 model is great for extended range. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle minimizes the guesswork of bullet hold-over for long-distance and provides an appropriate hash-mark so that shooters get a trustworthy bullet-drop reference.
Crossfire II riflescope is a single-piece aluminum tube that ensures durability and shockproof capability. It will provide fog-proof and waterproof performance as well. The anti-reflective and FMC lenses won’t compromise with image clarity. It is a finger adjustable capped reset turret that ensures easy zeroing after sighting in.
This is a true adjustable objective lens that allows parallax removal and easy image focus. The second focal plane doesn’t change the reticle with power. Either you want to use this for tactical or hunting purposes, this will be a handsome option especially within your budget.
Specifications:
- 6-24x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Second focal plane
- 1/4 MOA graduation adjustment
- 40 MOA max for elevation and windage adjustment
- 10 yards to infinity parallax setting
Pros
- Adjustable eye focus
- Lifetime warranty
- Can withstand harsh weather
- Best budget long-range rifle scope for $500 and $400
Cons
- A little bit heavy than others
- The reticle is not overwhelmingly illuminated
- Seems inconsistent for distant shooting
04. EOTECH 512 Holographic Weapon Sight
Our fourth pick is the EOTECH 512.A65 Holographic Sight. This is a popular sight for long-range shooting that features 1 MOA Dot reticle and 68 MOA Ring. Being a holographic sight, 1 MOA reticle remains in focus, just 1 MOA with magnification change which will help to make an accurate shot. It also provides fast and intuitive sighting.
EOTECH 512 HWS is water-resistant up to 3 m. It is compatible with MIL-STD 1913 and 1″ Weaver rails. You will find 20 different brightness levels to make this sight usable for various lighting scenarios. It is run by two 1.5 V AA batteries. And this supports CR123 alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable batteries.
This EOTech HWS will allow you shooting keeping both eyes open. The buttons are located in the rear, so both left and right-handed shooters can easily access them. If the sight window is somehow obscured by mud or snow, the HWS can still work. And this sight will be a great aid for you in the most extreme environs.
Specifications:
- 68 MOA Ring and 1 MOA Dot reticle
- Holographic sight
- Mountable to 1″ Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rails
- 20 brightness options
- 10 feet water submersible
Pros
- Removable battery compartment
- Fast target acquisition and reliable toughness
- Two eyes open shooting
- Best long-range holographic sight under $500
Cons
- Not night vision compatible
- 10 years warranty only
- Not dully waterproof
05. Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10×40 Rifle Scope
Leupold VX-3i Riflescope stands for the quality optics like other Leupold products. This is one of the best 1000 yard scope under 500 dollars. The duplex reticle will let you easily target acquisition. And matte finish provides camouflaging without exposing yourself. This is constructed from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum and tested for lifetime performance under the harshest recoil.
The VX-3i 3.5-10×40 riflescope uses Twilight Max for light management to dominate in the field. It is treated with DiamondCoat 2. The ion supports lens coating greatly for maximum light transmission and higher abrasion resistance. It also features finger click adjustments of 1/4 MOA for both elevation and windage adjustment.
This Leupold riflescope is lightweight enough that helps in shooting and carrying for long period. It is the ultimate waterproof, shock-proof, and fog-proof device. If targets hide in the tight brush, this scope can spot them within a short time. You can use the riflescope for the long-range shot when variable magnification is necessary.
Specifications:
- 5-10x magnification
- 40 mm objective lens
- 1/4 MOA click value
- Works from -40°F to 160°F
- Linear FOV (ft/100 yd) 29.8/11
- Eye relief 6 to 4.4-inch
- DiamondCoat 2 coating
- Duplex reticle
- 1 inch, 30mm tube
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Twilight Max ensures optical clarity
- Unparalleled dim-light performance
- 100% waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
- Lifetime warranty
- Best long-range hunting scope under $500
Cons
- No HD glass included
06. Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 Riflescopes
Coming with another outstanding long-range riflescope Vortex Viper HS-T is a versatile but simple riflescope that fits simultaneously for hunting, shooting, and tactical applications. This optical device has lots of versions but we pick the VMR-1 MOA 6-24×50 model for long-range shooting. The MOA-based VMR-1 reticle can holds accurately for extended ranges. You can properly adjust the reticle with your eyes as the eyepiece is a fast focus.
The single-piece tube is purged with argon and sealed with an O-ring that makes the scope waterproof and fog proof. The lenses come with premium quality having extra-low dispersion. They are fully multi-coated to ensure color fidelity and high-contrast resolution. There are also XR coatings for enhanced light-capturing capacity and the Armortek layer protects the lenses.
Vortex Viper comes with exposed style turrets that are good for precision as well as repeatable finger regulating clicks. The CRS Zero Stop feature will provide reliable zero return after dialing elevation corrections temporarily. This riflescope is a good choice within 1000 yards range shooting and one of the best long-range tactical scope under 500.
Specifications:
- 6-24x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- VMR-1 MOA reticle
- 1/4 MOA adjustment graduation
- 50 yards to infinity parallax setting
- FMC lenses with Armortek and XR coatings
- Second focal plane
- 30 mm tube and Aluminum housing
- 65 MOA max elevation and windage adjustment
- 4-inch eye relief
- 8-5.1 inch FOV @ 100 yards
Pros
- Fogproof, waterproof, and shockproof
- Superb brightness image
- CRS Zero Stop for returning to zero
- Exposed turrets help in long-range moving targets
- Perfect for hunting, shooting, and tactical
- Best long-range rifle scopes under $1000
Cons
- Heavy riflescope
07. Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24 x 50 Riflescope
We will wrap up our review with the Athlon Argos BTR Riflescope, the best first focal plane scope under $500. The greater magnification and lens size will help you in long-range shooting. The first focal plane will ensure shrinking or growing target images with power changing. This also helps quick target acquisition at small magnification.
The lenses have outperformed fully multi-coated lenses that give better light transmission to maximize brightness with true color throughout the whole light spectrum. The additional XPL coating will prevent grease, dirt, or harsh weather. AMPR MIL reticle is Illuminated that will be handy for low-light conditions and etched glass reticle will ensure durability with larger recoil shock resistance.
Argos BTR is fully waterproof and has great thermal stability due to argon purging. Aircraft-grade aluminum tube gives exceptional strength and shock-resistance to heavy recoil of the device. It is a side parallax adjustable scope that allows easy adjustment to any range. If you are looking for the best-illuminated rifle scope under $500, this will be a wonderful pick.
Specifications:
- 6-24x magnification
- 50 mm objective lens
- 30 mm tube and aluminum housing
- APMR MIL Illuminated reticle
- 3 inches eye relief
- 7 to 4.5 feet FOV @100 yards
- Click Value 0.1MIL
- First focal plane
- 18 MIL for elevation and windage adjustment
- 10 yards to infinity parallax adjustments
- FMC lenses with XPL coating
Pros
- Illuminated reticle makes this usable from dawn to dusk
- A great choice for long-range shooting
- Waterproof, shockproof, and fog proof
- Best FFP long-range rifle scope under $500
Cons
- Turret knob isn’t caliber well
- Weight is around half kilograms
Buying Guide of The Best Long Range Rifle Scope Under $500 to $1000
Holographic Sights Vs Scopes
When buying long-range rifle scopes, a common dilemma is which one performs better holographic sight or scope. Let’s reveal the fact.
Holographic sight is almost similar to red dot sight and truly features more advanced options. They provide quick and easy target recognition. Usually, holographic sights like quality EOTECH sights provide the depth of perception at any magnification that makes them superior to other sights. This occurs due to its 3D reticle. A holographic plate is placed between two windows and lasers illuminate the reticle. Although there is no magnification, still you can add magnifiers for getting the enlarged output.
The primary difference between holographic sight and scope is magnification. Scopes provide different levels of magnification. Some scopes come with red dot reticles but most of them have MOA and MIL reticle for windage and elevation adjustment.
First Focal Plane Vs Second Focal Plane
Riflescopes reticle is positioned either first focal plane or second focal plane. When discussing scopes, you may wonder which focal plane should be chosen?
Source: americanhunter.org
If the reticle is positioned in front of the erector tube is called the first focal plane (FFP) scope. This type is ideal for long-range shooting and hunting as there is no need for windage and elevation adjustment. But they are expensive than the second focal plane. In FFP reticles size change with scopes’ magnification. And they are difficult to see at low power and low light condition.
If the reticle is positioned at the back of the erector tube, this type is called the second focal plane (SFP) scope. They come in a variety of styles like bullet-drop compensation (BDC), simple crosshairs, illuminated, etc. They are easier to use with less magnification and the crosshair size doesn’t change with magnification.
Windage and elevation regulation is essential in this SFP scope. And they aren’t always reliable for long-range shooting.
Magnification for Long Range Riflescopes
Magnification is an important considering fact for scopes especially when you go for a long-range riflescope. Usually, the smaller magnification optics provide clear images than the larger ones. And greater magnification tends to blurry and distorted images sometimes.
However, you need larger power scopes for long-range shooting with variable magnification. But never take excessive sizes that can make your scope heavy. And make sure the scopes give maximum image brightness at high power. You can check the lens coatings. Usually, fully multi-coated lenses and other superior coatings provide good quality images.
For long-range shooting, 5-25x magnification riflescopes are recommended within 1000 yards. If you want to shoot 500 yards away, the 10x magnification will be pretty well. And 4 to 6x magnification riflescopes can enhance deer hunting between 100 to 200 yards. Take these items for turkey hunting or coyote hunting.
Choosing The Perfect Objective Lens Size for Long Range Riflescopes
A bigger objective lens will let more lights pass hence the image will be brighter as result. And this is necessarily important for long-range shooting. Pro hunters and shooters prefer more than 40mm objective lens diameter for long-range shooting but 50mm riflescopes are more convenient options.
Never go for a smaller lens when shooting for extended range, this won’t provide great output in the field particularly in the low-light.
Adjustable Focus
If you are looking for the best shot, you need the best clarity. And the adjustable focus eyepiece is a must for long-range shooting. Either you are young or old, this feature will help you adjust your eyes with magnification changes. So, by adjusting the eye focus, you can easily get the best image whether you have any eye problem or not.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is The Best Caliber for Long Range Shooting?
There are different cartridges that are used for long-range shooting. Out there, we consider .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor as the best long-range hunting cartridges. Some other popular long-range calibers are 6.5 Creedmoor, 5.56/.223 Remington, 243 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, 300 Winchester Magnum, .308 Winchester, 224 Valkyrie, etc.
Do You Need Rifle Bipod For Long Range Shooting?
Hunting or shooting for an extended period is tiresome, particularly when spotting long-range targets. However, a good bipod helps you by reducing tension and tiredness. Some of the best rifle bipods for long-range shooting are Atlas V8, Harris S-BRM, UTG 360 Bipod, and many more.
Final Verdict
Long-range shooting is definitely challenging. Therefore, our top-listed best long-range rifle scope under $500 to $1000 will ease your shooting greatly. Whatever the scope you choose from above, you will get a high level of clarity and support within 1000 yards. Most of them have adjustable turrets that let you adjust the settings precisely. And greater magnification and weatherproof scopes support you for long distances and harsh conditions.
Let’s aim far off target accurately with your reliable scope and make the successful shot!
Kalman is a hunting expert who has a vast experience with wild game hunting. Though night time hunting is his favorite, he masters the art of daytime hunting and shooting. Being a nature lover and outdoor enthusiast, he wants to pass the knowledge acquired over time to the next generation.
