10 Best 1 4x Scopes 2025 in the United States

The Nightforce ATACR 4-16x42mm scope is designed for precision shooters, especially those using semi-automatic rifles, who need quick target acquisition and clear images under various lighting conditions. It offers a versatile magnification range from 4x to 16x, making it suitable for both close and longer-range shooting. The 42mm objective lens provides good light-gathering ability without making the scope too bulky, helping maintain a compact overall length of 12.6 inches and a manageable weight of about 1.9 pounds. This balance makes it easier to handle during extended use.

One standout feature is the Horus TReMoR3 illuminated reticle, which is built for fast and accurate mil-dot ranging and wind calls, helping shooters make adjustments quickly. Being a first focal plane (FFP) scope means the reticle stays true to scale at any magnification, which is useful for precise holdovers. The eye relief of 3.5 inches is comfortable and safe for recoil, and the field of view ranges from wide at low magnification to narrower at higher power, letting you track targets easily when zoomed out and focus in tightly when zoomed in.

Durability-wise, the ATACR is waterproof, fogproof, and built to withstand tough outdoor conditions, which is essential for hunting and tactical use. Its ZeroHold technology allows the user to quickly return to the zero setting and dial below zero, adding flexibility that can save time in the field. While the price and specialized features might be more than casual shooters need, and the scope’s 34mm tube and precise turrets add some bulk and weight, it remains a rugged, highly accurate, and fast-to-use option that effectively balances clarity, precision, and durability.

The ATN Thor LTV Ultra Light Thermal Hunting Scope is designed primarily for hunting and offers a solid set of features for users needing thermal imaging. It features a 4-12x magnification range, providing flexibility for both close and mid-range targets. The 256x192 thermal sensor with a 12-micron resolution and 60Hz refresh rate delivers clear, distortion-free images, further enhanced by SharpIR technology that improves image sharpness for better target identification. The scope includes multiple reticle options and a One Shot Zero feature, which simplifies quick zeroing in on targets after the first shot.

The eye relief is generous at 90mm, offering a comfortable and safe distance from the eyepiece. Its field of view is 8.8 degrees, suitable for scanning an area though it might feel somewhat narrow for users desiring wider situational awareness. Adjustments are user-friendly with standard 30mm ring mounts and reliable turret controls. The build is lightweight (approximately 635 grams) and constructed with durable aluminum and plastic, making it suitable for rugged hunting conditions. Battery life is robust, supporting 9+ hours on a single charge, ideal for extended sessions without concern.

This scope has a relatively modest thermal resolution compared to higher-end models, which could limit detail visibility at longer distances. While it excels in thermal imaging, it does not include some advanced optics features such as a very wide field of view or extremely high magnification found in other scopes. It is best suited for hunters or shooters who want a dependable, easy-to-use thermal scope offering solid image clarity, good battery life, and practical features without overwhelming complexity.

The ATN X-Sight-4K 3-14x Pro Edition is a versatile digital hunting scope that offers a solid magnification range from 3x to 14x, suitable for various hunting distances. Its 30mm objective lens is on the smaller side compared to some traditional scopes, which might affect light gathering, but the digital sensor and night vision mode compensate well for low-light conditions. Instead of a traditional reticle, it uses a digital reticle that can be customized, which is great for precision but might feel different if you're used to classic scopes. The scope features a long eye relief, making it comfortable to use without straining your eyes. Field of view is decent for this magnification range, allowing you to track targets easily.

The turrets and adjustments are electronic, handled through the Obsidian 4 dual-core processor; this enables features like a ballistic calculator and recoil-activated video recording, which helps with long-range accuracy and capturing your shots without extra effort. Durability is good, with an aluminum body and weather resistance that works in extreme temperatures from -20°F to 120°F, ideal for tough environments. Battery life is impressive, lasting over 18 hours, so you won’t have to worry about frequent recharging during a day out.

As a digital scope, it depends on battery power and may require some learning to use all smart functions smoothly. This scope is ideal for hunters who want advanced technology like video recording and night vision built-in, rather than those looking for a simple, traditional optical scope.