Long Range Riflescopes

Haylee Nadeau
25 min readMar 22, 2024

Ready for some serious long-range shooting? Explore our round-up of the best long range riflescopes that can help you make accurate shots at incredible distances. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these high-quality scopes and help you find the perfect match for your next big adventure.

The Top 19 Best Long Range Riflescopes

  1. Versatile 15x50 Tactical Rifle Scope with 215ft Linear Field of View — Experience unrivaled tactical performance with the Vortex Recon R/T 15x50 Tactical Scope, featuring powerful 15x magnification and compact design for seamless field surveillance.
  2. High-Performance DSLR-compatible Photography Scope with ED-APO Lens — Experience high-quality digiscoping with the Knight PT 72mm f/6.0 ED-APO Photography Spotting Scope, featuring advanced optics, ergonomic design, and custom carrying case. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and DSLR photographers alike.
  3. Riton 15–45x60 Silver Rifle Scope — Experience unmatched precision and durability with the Riton 5 Primal 15–45x60 AGLD SPT Scp — the ultimate Silver Rifle Scope for marksmen and hunters alike.
  4. Powerful Leupold Gold Ring 12–40x60mm HD Spotting Scope with Magnificent Image Quality — Experience exceptional image quality with the Leupold Gold Ring 12–40x60mm HD Spotting Scope, featuring digital camera compatibility, Index Matched Lens System, and a lightweight magnesium housing, perfect for your 350 Legend scope!
  5. High-Quality 20–60x85 Ultra HD Spotting Scope for Precision Shooters and Birders — Discover stunning clarity and resolution with the 20–60×85 Ares G2 UHD, the ideal choice for birders and precision shooters seeking vivid plumage variances or distant target spotting.
  6. Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope: Stylish and Compact Observation Tool for Wildlife Enthusiasts — Discover the perfect blend of bright, vibrant images and powerful zoom with the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 30–60x85 Spotting Scope, designed for nature enthusiasts who value wildlife preservation and unmatched durability.
  7. Athlon Cronus G2 20–60x86mm Spotting Scope: Enhanced Contrast and Clarity for Precise Hunting — Experience unparalleled clarity and contrast with the Athlon Optics Cronus G2 20–60x86mm UHD Spotting Scope, the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.
  8. Vortex Razor HD Compact Riflescope for Excellent Viewing Experience — Experience premium, compact optics with the Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 Spotting Scope, designed for weight-conscious backcountry hunters and featuring exceptional edge-to-edge color and clarity.
  9. Leupold Gold Ring Compact Spotting Scope: Lightweight, Waterproof, and Perfect for Hunting — Experience unparalleled portability and performance with the Leupold Gold Ring Compact Spotting Scope, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking lightweight, waterproof, and fogproof optics.
  10. Convert Your Spotting Scope into a Smart Scope with Longshot Target Vision Hawk — Transform your standard spotting scope into a smartscope with the Longshot Hawk Spotting Scope Camera, featuring live HD video, quick setup, and 7+ hour battery life.
  11. Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 Angled Spotting Scope: Compact and High-Performance Optics — Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 Angled Spotting Scope offers premium optics in a compact package, perfect for weight-conscious hunters with an impressive field of view, outstanding color fidelity, and adjustable focus for exceptional edge-to-edge sharpness.
  12. Advanced Nikon ProStaff 5 Long Range Spotting Scope with 60mm Objective Lens and 16–48x Zoom — The Nikon ProStaff 5 16–48x60mm Angled Long Range Spotting Scope combines exceptional optical performance with ergonomics for unmatched quality, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking high-performance scopes.
  13. High-Performance Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope — Experience crystal-clear views with the Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope, featuring a 20–60x zoom eyepiece, edge-to-edge sharpness, and ergonomic design for long-lasting performance.
  14. Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20–60x60: Rugged, Waterproof, and Glare-Reducing Scope — The Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20–60x60 scope is a high-quality, rugged, and 100% waterproof, fogproof option perfect for hunting enthusiasts, offering exceptional low-light performance and all-day comfort during extended glassing sessions.
  15. Vortex Razor HD 85mm Straightspotting Scope with 27–60x Zoom and 85mm Objective Lens — Unleash your hunting potential with the Vortex Razor HD 27–60x85 Spotting Scope, featuring a 27–60x zoom eyepiece and 85mm objective lens for unmatched clarity and low-light spotting capabilities.
  16. Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide Spotting Scope: Versatile and Waterproof LPVO Scope for Hunting Adventures — Leverage the outstanding clarity and durability of Leupold’s SX-4 Pro Guide 20–60x85mm HD Angled Spotting Scope with its waterproof, fogproof construction, scratch-resistant lenses, and enhanced low-light performance.
  17. Versatile Venture Black Spotting Scope with Tripod and Carrying Cases — Capture stunning images at dawn and dusk with the Simmons 15–45x60 Venture Black FMCWPT Tripod Hard/Soft Case, featuring fully-multi coated optics for bright, sharp images and a complete set of accessories for every hunting adventure.
  18. Advanced Long Range Spotting Scope for Outdoor Adventures — Unmatched clarity and versatility with the Creative XP HD Spotting Scope, perfect for target shooting, hunting, and birdwatching, boasting waterproof, shockproof construction and advanced imaging capabilities.
  19. Sightmark Solitude 20–60x60SE Spotting Scope Kit — Experience high-quality optics for long-range viewing with the Sightmark SM11031K Solitude 20–60x60SE Spotting Scope Kit, perfect for target shooting, game tracking, and more.

Reviews

Versatile 15x50 Tactical Rifle Scope with 215ft Linear Field of View

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I recently had the opportunity to use the Vortex Recon R / T 15x50 Tactical Scope, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations in both performance and ease of use.

First off, the scope offers a powerful magnification of 15x, which proves invaluable when observing targets from a distance. The objective lens diameter of 50mm provides a bright and clear image even in low light conditions, making it an ideal choice for nighttime explorations.

The Vortex Recon R / T 15x50 Tactical Scope is incredibly versatile, with a unique attachment clip that can secure it to any belt or strap for rapid deployment. I found this to be especially useful during outdoor excursions, where quick access to the scope was a must.

However, the scope does have its drawbacks. For one, setting the eye relief proved to be a bit of a challenge for me, though this may be a matter of personal preference. Additionally, I wished the objective lens were larger, as I’ve used scopes with larger lenses that offered a wider field of view.

Despite the minor drawbacks, I’m thoroughly impressed with the Vortex Recon R / T 15x50 Tactical Scope. Its powerful magnification, versatile clip attachment, and excellent performance in low light conditions make it a top contender for those seeking a reliable, portable spotting scope for their outdoor adventures.

High-Performance DSLR-compatible Photography Scope with ED-APO Lens

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Recently, I had the chance to use the Knight PT 72mm f/6.0 ED-APO Photography Scope from Snypex, and I must say it’s quite an impressive device. The scope’s unique ability to eliminate chromatic and spherical aberrations, thanks to the extra-low dispersion glass and apochromatic doublet lens configuration, made viewing stunning and distortion-free. The anti-reflection fully multicoated optics maximized the light entering the lens, providing bright and high-contrast views, even in low light conditions.

The multi-functional, dual-speed straight-angled photography scope could be easily converted into a conventional angled-view spotting scope with an optional eyepiece adapter. Its aluminum housing was coated with a durable white paint to resist chips and scratches. The focuser, based on the DSLR lens system, offered a smooth and adjustable experience for fine-tuning the focus.

With two 1/4"-20 tripod mounts and an integrated dovetail plate, this scope was easy to mount and balance on a tripod. A reinforced hard carrying case with a die-cut foam interior ensured safe storage and transport. Overall, the Knight PT 72mm f/6.0 ED-APO Photography Scope was a powerful and versatile option for digiscoping enthusiasts.

Riton 15–45x60 Silver Rifle Scope

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As a hunter and marksman myself, I’ve been using the Riton 5 Primal optics in my daily endeavors, and it has truly turned out to be a game-changer. The Silver Rifle Scope from Riton is made to withstand every challenge and situation, promising reliable performance. The optics are just the right size, without being too bulky, making it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a sleek design.

While the lens clarity and brightness are top-notch, one thing that stood out to me is the ease of use — even in low light conditions, I never struggled to adjust the focus or zoom level. This silver beauty has been an unwavering companion, and I can confidently say it’s one of the most reliable tools in my arsenal. The only downside I encountered was the weight, but it’s a small compromise for the top-quality performance it delivers. Overall, the Riton 5 Primal is a must-have for every hunter and marksman who values dependability and exceptional precision.

Powerful Leupold Gold Ring 12–40x60mm HD Spotting Scope with Magnificent Image Quality

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Last weekend, I decided to give the Leupold Gold Ring 12–40x60mm HD Spotting Scope a try during a hunting trip. I was impressed by the lightweight magnesium housing, which made it easy to carry around without adding too much weight to my backpack. This Leupold scope features an Extra Low Dispersion Optical System, providing incredible image quality and color fidelity across a wide field of view.

One of the standout features of this scope is Leupold’s Folded Light Path (FLP) system. This prism-less design allows for a longer optical system to be compressed into half its length, making it more compact and portable. I was able to comfortably hold the scope and see the target sharp at 12x power without needing a tripod, unlike the other spotters I’ve tried.

However, this Leupold scope isn’t without its challenges. The focus knob needs more work to make it smoother and easier to turn, especially when trying to lock onto a target while changing magnification. The location of the focus knob also caused some accidental touches to the zoom knob, which was frustrating at times.

Overall, the Leupold Gold Ring 12–40x60mm HD Spotting Scope offered a great experience when it came to capturing impressive views and tracking game at a distance. Its lightweight and packable design made it easy to take wherever I went, while its crystal-clear glass provided outstanding clarity. Although there were some minor drawbacks, such as the stiff focus knob and accidental knob touches, the pros outweighed the cons in my experience.

High-Quality 20–60x85 Ultra HD Spotting Scope for Precision Shooters and Birders

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I recently had the chance to try out the Athlon Optics Ares G2 UHD 20–60x85 Straight Spotting Scope, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations! . The clarity and sharpness of the image were impressive, especially considering the size of the scope.

It’s lightweight, yet sturdy enough to handle a good amount of wear and tear. The twist-up eye-cup allowed for a perfect fit, and the protective layer coating kept the lens safe from dirt and scratches.

Overall, I highly recommend this spotting scope for anyone looking for an affordable yet high-quality option.

Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 Spotting Scope: Stylish and Compact Observation Tool for Wildlife Enthusiasts

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During my hunt, my Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 spotting scope became my trusted companion. The large objective lens enabled me to see even in low light, which was perfect for my late afternoon game spotting. The powerful zoom was beneficial, as I could observe distant subjects with ease. The 45° eyepiece angle made it comfortable to view for extended periods. The magnesium alloy housing felt light without compromising durability. The focus collar and small eyepiece zoom wheel were both easy to manipulate even with gloves.

Although this scope performed exceptionally well, I faced a minor issue with chromatic aberration, which was more noticeable at higher magnifications. Despite this drawback, I found the scope to be an affordable and practical option for my specific needs. I highly recommend the Zeiss Conquest Gavia 85 spotting scope to birdwatchers and hunters alike, as it offers clear and sharp images without breaking the bank.

Athlon Cronus G2 20–60x86mm Spotting Scope: Enhanced Contrast and Clarity for Precise Hunting

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Every time I step into the outdoors, I rely on my dependable spotting scope to help me spot the details of my surroundings. Recently, I had the chance to try out the Athlon Optics Cronus G2 20–60x86mm UHD Spotting Scope, and it truly exceeded my expectations. With its single focus wheel, I could easily find crystal-clear images no matter the distance.

Just like how it stands out among other scopes, the bright and clear images the Cronus G2 provides make an ordinary adventure in the wild extraordinary. The vibrancy of colors, outstanding clarity, and impressive light transmission helped me make out every detail — even from afar. Its exceptional contrast even in the dimmest of settings set this scope apart from others I’ve used.

Of course, no product is perfect. While the scope offers unmatched clarity, its bulkiness at 16.2 inches by 6.5 inches felt a tad uncomfortable to carry, especially for extended treks. Another downside was the scope case. Designed with a poor layout, it took an extra step to fully access the scope, which could be inconvenient in a hurry.

But overall, the Athlon Optics Cronus G2 definitely earns its place among the best scopes, with its sharp imagery and remarkable color definition. The smooth focus wheel, coupled with the user-friendly interface, make it user friendly and easy to maneuver in the field. So if you’re looking for top-notch spotting scope and don’t mind lugging around a bit of extra weight, this could be the one for you.

Vortex Razor HD Compact Riflescope for Excellent Viewing Experience

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As a backcountry hunter, I found the Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 Spotting Scope invaluable for my adventures. This snag-free device fits perfectly into my pack, thanks to its compact size and helical focus wheel. It delivers a brilliant edge-to-edge color and clarity, which helps me spot even the smallest movements of wildlife.

One standout feature is the wide field of view, which I’ve found incredibly useful in capturing vast landscapes with ease. The linear field of view (168'-89') gives me a larger, unobstructed view while keeping the distance in mind. The spotting scope is compatible with Arca-Swiss tripods, which is a major plus for simplifying my setup.

However, the Razor HD 13–39x56 does have some drawbacks, like the comparatively lower angle of view, which might impact how much ground I can cover at a single glance. Additionally, the eye relief is a bit restrictive, as I found myself adjusting my position frequently to observe comfortably.

Overall, the Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 is an excellent choice for hunters seeking a balance between premium optics and a compact, portable design.

Leupold Gold Ring Compact Spotting Scope: Lightweight, Waterproof, and Perfect for Hunting

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The Leupold Gold Ring Compact Spotting Scope is a versatile and sleek device perfect for spotting game, enjoying the scenery, or tracking targets in the distance. With its lightweight carbon fiber construction, this scope is easy to pack and carry in your backpack during a hunting trip or long hike. The high-quality optical coating ensures a clear and sharp image, even in low-light conditions, making it a great choice for birdwatching or stargazing. The inclusion of a soft case and lens covers adds to its convenience and portability.

While it may be a bit heavy for regular use with maximum magnification, it’s still an exceptional optic that outshines many other spotting scopes in terms of clarity and lightweight design. The occasional need for a tripod might hinder your experience slightly, but overall, the Leupold Gold Ring Compact Spotting Scope is a high-quality optic that offers many benefits for its price point.

Convert Your Spotting Scope into a Smart Scope with Longshot Target Vision Hawk

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The Longshot Hawk Spotting Scope Camera has become a must-have accessory for my spotting scope. Its ease of use and setup have made it an indispensable tool in my shooting sessions. With its compatibility with spotting scopes with eyepieces between 36mm and 58mm, it seamlessly converts my standard scope into a smart one.

One highlight of this device is its live HD video feature, allowing me to view my target in real-time while tracking and numbering my shots, taking photos, and recording videos. The 12+ hour runtime ensures that I don’t have to worry about running out of battery power during my outings.

However, there are a couple of downsides to this product. The battery life could be longer, as I sometimes find myself having to recharge it more frequently than I would like. The device could also benefit from a more durable construction, as it has been quite drop-resistant and weather-resistant in my experience.

Overall, the Longshot Hawk Spotting Scope Camera is an excellent companion for any shooting enthusiast seeking to upgrade their spotting scope. Its features, ease of use, and versatility make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to enhance their target vision and improve their accuracy on the range.

Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 Angled Spotting Scope: Compact and High-Performance Optics

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The Vortex Razor HD has been an exciting addition to my outdoor adventures. With a 39x objective lens diameter and 56mm eyepiece, my spotting scope quickly became my go-to device for capturing every detail and distinguishing between different features. The angled and straight linear fields of view, combined with the 1.7° close focus and 15.0mm eye relief, makes this spotting scope incredibly versatile and adaptable to any situation.

Using this gem in the field has been nothing short of delightful. Its size and weight — both compact and lightweight — are the stars of the show for a hiker like me. The snag-free helical focus wheel makes it easy to navigate and use, while its compatibility with Arca-Swiss tripods simplifies the setting up process. I particularly enjoy the brilliant edge-to-edge color and clarity, which allows me to capture even the smallest twitches in my subjects.

Despite its many virtues, some minor drawbacks did emerge with my use. I would have appreciated the ability to swivel the spotting scope as I would with a larger variety from the same brand. Additionally, the focus knob’s stiffer feel when paired with the neoprene cover proved a bit troublesome. It took me a while to adjust to this, but overall, it didn’t significantly impact my outdoor experience.

In conclusion, the Vortex Razor HD 13–39x56 spotting scope is a well-thought-out product, specifically catered to the needs of backcountry hunters and hikers. With its powerful magnification, compact design, and excellent edge-to-edge color and clarity, it offers a unique blend of convenience and reliability. Though it does have some minor shortcomings, they are outweighed by the benefits it provides, making it an excellent tool for any adventurous soul.

Advanced Nikon ProStaff 5 Long Range Spotting Scope with 60mm Objective Lens and 16–48x Zoom

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As a passionate birdwatcher, the Nikon ProStaff 5 16–48x60 angled spotting scope quickly became my go-to device for spotting and observing distant birds. The 16–48x zoom eyepiece allowed me to easily change the magnification to match the range of my subjects, and the 60mm focal length provided exceptional optical performance.

One of the standout features was the multicoated optics, which resulted in high-contrast images with maximum brightness and a neutral color bias. The 3.75mm exit pupil diameter, when combined with the 48x magnification eye piece, enabled me to capture even the smallest details of the birds in any lighting conditions.

Though the ProStaff 5 Fieldscope was surprisingly lightweight, weighing just over 30 ounces with the eyepiece included, it still managed to provide a broad field of view. The o-ring sealed and fully waterproof construction ensured my spotting scope was protected from harsh weather conditions and capable of withstanding the occasional bump along the way.

That being said, there were a couple of minor drawbacks I experienced with this incredible device. The oddly placed focusing nob was not ergonomically friendly, and I often struggled to use it comfortably. Additionally, I found the included neoprene cover to be slightly awkward, especially on the straps, which made it difficult to securely attach the cover when I moved from one location to another.

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend the Nikon ProStaff 5 16–48x60 angled spotting scope for anyone looking to expand their birding horizons or simply enhance their visual experience of spotting distant objects. The pros outweigh the cons, and I am confident this amazing piece of technology will serve as an indispensable addition to my wilderness exploration kit.

High-Performance Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope

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As a wildlife enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of using the Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope for a few weeks now, and I must say it’s been a game-changer. The contrast-rich and color-accurate image it provides is simply incredible, and I can attest to its sharpness, even when zooming in on distant subjects.

One of the standout features has been its ability to maintain edge-to-edge sharpness, thanks to the field flattener technology. It’s designed for a wide range of uses, with an 82mm objective lens that gathers plenty of light and a 20–60x zoom eyepiece. The angled-viewing aspect also makes it more versatile, allowing me to enjoy my view with less strain on my neck.

Not only is the Nikon Monarch a reliable piece of equipment in various conditions, but it’s also built to last. The robust aluminum alloy body is both durable and easy to operate, while the type 1 bayonet mount with locking system ensures secure attachment and removal of the eyepiece.

Despite these great features, my experience hasn’t been entirely without its drawbacks. While the focus ring does provide fine adjustment for distant subjects, I’ve found it a bit difficult to get that sharp image when focusing on more nearby subjects. Additionally, the nylon padded case that comes with it isn’t the sturdiest, so I’d recommend investing in a more durable case to protect your investment.

Overall, the Nikon Monarch Spotting Scope has been a trusty companion during my outdoor adventures. Its combination of impressive image quality, user-friendly design, and lightweight yet rugged construction makes it a must-have for any serious birdwatcher or wildlife enthusiast.

Leupold SX-2 Alpine HD 20–60x60: Rugged, Waterproof, and Glare-Reducing Scope

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As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve always been a fan of Leupold products. So when I heard about the SX-2 Alpine HD 20–60x60 spotting scope, I was excited to try it out. To be honest, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from a scope with such a hefty magnification range, but after giving it a try, I was blown away by its performance.

First off, the build quality is top-notch. This scope is incredibly rugged and 100% waterproof and fogproof, which is a must-have when spending long hours in the great outdoors. The oversized eyepiece is a game-changer for comfortable all-day glassing, and the Twilight Max Light Management System really helps you see more in low light, while reducing glare.

However, while I appreciate the scope’s design and specs, I did encounter a few downsides. The end caps for the eyepiece and lens cap sometimes pop off, which can be quite frustrating. I also found the scope a bit heavy for backpacking, but for stationary use, it’s not a problem.

Overall, the SX-2 Alpine HD 20–60x60 spotting scope is a powerful and reliable tool for anyone looking to explore the outdoors, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter. Just be aware that it may not be perfect for everyone and comes with a few minor drawbacks.

Vortex Razor HD 85mm Straightspotting Scope with 27–60x Zoom and 85mm Objective Lens

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I recently had the chance to try out the Vortex Straight Combo, 27–60X. This spotting scope has become a game changer for me, providing impressive clarity and precision in a wide range of conditions. The 85mm objective lens is a highlight for me; it collects enough light to work well even in low-light situations. I’m also impressed by the fully multi-coated lenses, which deliver excellent color fidelity, superb resolution, and clarity.

The scope is lightweight and easy to use, making it a great addition to any hunter’s gear. However, there is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to focusing, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to enjoy a clear view. Overall, this spotting scope has exceeded my expectations, especially considering its price point. It’s a premium, high-performance scope that’s worth every penny.

Leupold SX-4 Pro Guide Spotting Scope: Versatile and Waterproof LPVO Scope for Hunting Adventures

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I’ve been using this Leupold Sx-4 Pro Guide 20–60x85mm HD Angled Spotting Scope for a while now, and let me tell you, it has made a huge difference in my outdoor adventures. One thing that stood out to me was the integrated sunshade; it dramatically reduces glare, providing me with clear views throughout the day. I took this scope with me on a weekend getaway in the mountains, and as soon as I set it up, I was amazed by how perfect it was for wildlife watching. The clarity was outstanding, and even in challenging lighting conditions, I was able to make out the tiniest details of the fauna around me.

However, there was a minor drawback that I noticed: the scope can be quite heavy to carry around, especially when hiking for a longer duration. Another thing that I noticed was that the protective caps don’t stay on very well, so I often had to manually reattach them to the scope. But overall, the pros definitely outweigh the cons in this case, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.

Versatile Venture Black Spotting Scope with Tripod and Carrying Cases

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The Simmons 15–45x60 Venture Black Fmcvptripodhard/Soft Case has been my go-to spotting scope for all sorts of adventures. With its fully-multi coated optics, the scope delivers bright images, even in low-light conditions, which is especially crucial for my hunts at dawn and dusk.

One of the highlights of this scope is its versatility — both its straight and angled eyepieces fit every viewing scenario. The sturdy, tabletop tripod with a built-in window mount provides a stable platform for my scope, and the included hard plastic case ensures that it stays safe and well-protected, without taking up too much space.

The soft carrying case also comes in handy when I’m transporting the scope to different locations, making it a convenient option for in-field use. And, with a variety of power variability options, I’m able to adjust the scope settings to suit my specific needs.

However, there was one downside to using this scope — it was a bit tight to adjust the eyepiece, which could be inconvenient at times. But overall, given the affordable price and the features it offers, I really can’t complain.

Advanced Long Range Spotting Scope for Outdoor Adventures

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I recently took the Creative XP HD Spotting Scope for a test drive while attending an astronomy event. Not only did I witness some incredible celestial bodies, but this spotting scope also allowed me to see a few shooting stars, something that’s not typically possible with the naked eye.

One of the standout features of this spotting scope was its 2 Fine Focus knobs, which made zooming in a breeze. The extra-low dispersion glass also provided a crystal-clear view, free from any blurs or distortions. My only slight gripe was with the tripod, which felt a bit flimsy at times. Despite this minor inconvenience, I wouldn’t trade the experience of using this spotting scope for the world!

Sightmark Solitude 20–60x60SE Spotting Scope Kit

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The Sightmark Solitude 20–60x60SE Spotting Scope Kit has become my reliable companion for spotting game from a distance. The 60mm objective lens diameter and straight eye piece provide a clear and detailed view, while the rotatable mount ring allows for versatility. The aluminum prism coating ensures optimal light transmission and the included tripod and carry case keeps the scope protected.

While the 3mm exit pupil diameter seemed a tad small in bright light conditions, the 52.5ft field of view at 1000yds and 107.4ft field of view at 1000yds with minimum power have proved handy for tracking game in various settings. The waterproof feature adds an extra layer of protection from the elements. The only downside was the minimum focus distance of 14ft, but overall, this scope is a winner for those who need a flexible and long-standing spotting scope.

Buyer’s Guide

Long range riflescopes are essential tools for hunters, shooters, and even wildlife observers who require more precise and accurate shots from a greater distance. They are specifically designed to increase the scope’s magnification, making it easier to aim at targets that are far away. This guide will provide an overview of the essential features and considerations when purchasing a long range riflescope.

Magnification

Magnification is the most critical aspect to consider when buying a long range riflescope. The magnification level determines how much the target appears enlarged through the scope. A higher magnification can provide a better image, but it may also cause more vibration due to the increased weight of the scope. Look for a scope with an appropriate magnification level based on the shooting purpose and distance.

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Objective Diameter

The size of the objective lens, usually measured in inches, represents the diameter of the lens opening through which light enters the scope. A larger objective lens can gather more light, providing a brighter image. However, it may also increase the size and weight of the scope, making it less portable. Opt for a balance between light gathering ability and portability. Some long range scopes come with interchangeable objective lenses, allowing you to swap between different sizes.

Field of View

The field of view is the width of the visible target area through the scope. A wider field of view is generally preferred for long range shooting as it makes it easier to quickly locate and track targets. However, a narrower field of view may provide a sharper and clearer image at the highest magnification levels. Consider your shooting style and environment when choosing the appropriate field of view.

Lens Quality

Lens quality is an essential factor in determining the clarity, sharpness, and brightness of the image produced by the scope. Look for scopes with high-quality lenses made from premium materials. ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass is often used to reduce chromatic aberration and improve image clarity. In addition, fully multi-coated lenses help reduce glare and improve light transmission, resulting in a brighter image.

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Eye Relief

Eye relief is the distance between the eye and the ocular lens at which the scope provides a clear and crisp image. The recommended eye relief varies based on the scope’s design and magnification level. Choosing a scope with sufficient eye relief is essential to prevent eye strain and avoid injury during recoil.

Mounting and Ring Height

Mounting the riflescope securely on the rifle is crucial for maintaining accuracy and precision. Consider the ring height and mounting type when purchasing a long range scope. Tall rings may obstruct the view of the front sight, while low rings allow for a more natural sight picture. The scope mount should be adjustable to ensure a perfect fit and alignment.

Turret Design and Adjustments

The turret design and adjustments on a long range riflescope are intended to make it easy to adjust the scope’s elevation and windage for different shooting conditions. Look for smooth, audible, and easy-to-use adjustments. A capped turret can help prevent accidental adjustments, while a zero-stop feature allows you to quickly return to the zero setting after making adjustments.

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Tactical Features

Long range riflescopes with tactical features offer advanced functionality and convenience. Consider features like illuminated reticles, ballistic circles, rangefinders, and digitally adjustable reticles. These features can enhance long range shooting accuracy and efficiency, but may also add complexity and cost to the scope.

Maintenance and Durability

The durability and construction of a long range riflescope are essential factors to consider, especially when shooting in harsh or challenging environments. Look for scopes with high-quality materials, weather-resistant coatings, and robust construction. Waterproof and fog-proof features can help protect the scope from harsh weather conditions, while shock-absorbing mounts can prevent damage from recoil.

Warranty and Customer Support

Purchase from a reputable manufacturer that offers a warranty and exceptional customer support. A warranty provides protection against defects or faults, while customer support can assist with questions, repairs, and upgrades. Investing in a long range riflescope with a strong warranty and reliable customer support can provide peace of mind and ensure a long-lasting and satisfying purchase.

Choosing the right long range riflescope requires careful consideration of various factors, such as magnification, objective diameter, field of view, lens quality, and other essential features. By prioritizing these features and understanding your shooting needs, you can make an informed decision and find a long range riflescope that meets your requirements and enhances your accuracy and precision on the field.

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FAQ

What are long range riflescopes?

Long range riflescopes are optics devices designed to increase accuracy and provide clear sights at long distances. They are specifically designed for hunting, shooting, and precision target shooting beyond the typical range of standard riflescopes.

What makes a riflescope suitable for long range shooting?

Several factors contribute to a riflescope’s suitability for long-range shooting:

  • High-quality optical lenses to provide clear, crisp images.
  • Adjustable parallax settings to eliminate parallax error at various distances.
  • Durable, shock-resistant construction for rugged, long-lasting performance.
  • Variable or fixed magnification capabilities for greater flexibility in various shooting situations.
  • Illuminated reticles, which enhance visibility in low light conditions.
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What are the differences between fixed and variable magnification riflescopes?

Fixed magnification riflescopes have a single, predetermined magnification level that cannot be changed. This makes them less versatile than variable magnification scopes, but they can be more affordable and offer better light transmission.

Variable magnification riflescopes allow users to adjust the magnification level, making them suitable for a wider range of distances and shooting scenarios. However, they tend to be more expensive and may have lower light transmission compared to fixed magnification scopes.

What is the purpose of the parallax adjustment on a long range riflescope?

The parallax adjustment on a long range riflescope helps eliminate parallax error, which is the misalignment of the crosshairs and the target due to the scope’s side-to-side movement. By adjusting the parallax setting, the shooter can ensure accurate sight alignment at various distances.

What materials are commonly used in the construction of long range riflescopes?

Long range riflescopes are typically made from a combination of materials such as aluminum, magnesium, and glass, providing the necessary durability, strength, and weight balance. Some models may also include rubber armor or other protective coatings to enhance their shock resistance.

How should I choose the right long range riflescope for my needs?

When selecting a long range riflescope, consider the following factors:

  • Magnification: Choose a fixed or variable magnification level based on your shooting requirements and personal preference.
  • Reticle: Select a reticle type that best suits your shooting style and the type of targets you will be engaging.
  • Objective lens size: Larger objective lenses will allow more light to enter the scope, but may also increase the overall weight of the device.
  • Budget: Establish a budget and find a long range riflescope that offers the necessary features within your price range.

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