10 Best Riffle Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 rifle scope is designed for serious long-range shooters, including hunters and competitive shooters. Its magnification range from 7x to a remarkable 35x allows for precise target acquisition at various distances, making it highly versatile. The 56mm objective lens ensures ample light transmission for clear images even in low-light conditions.

The first focal plane (FFP) reticle ensures that the reticle size adjusts with magnification, maintaining accuracy at any range. The MIL-XT reticle offers fine aiming points and quick reference under stressful conditions, which is beneficial for competitive shooting and hunting scenarios. The parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and 100 MOA elevation travel provide excellent precision for both short and long-range shooting. The ZeroStop feature is a convenient addition, allowing for a quick return to zero settings.

With an eye relief of 3.6 inches, the scope can be comfortably used with various rifles, maintaining safe distance from recoil. However, at 39.3 ounces, it is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for users prioritizing lightweight gear. The scope's durability and weather resistance are top-notch, ensuring reliable performance in harsh conditions. It is also quite expensive, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is an excellent choice for those who need high performance and precision in long-range shooting, but its weight and price might be potential downsides for some users.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters who want versatility and precision. It offers a useful magnification range from 3x to 15x, allowing you to zoom in on targets near or far. The 44mm objective lens is a bit smaller than some models but still provides a bright, clear image thanks to Leupold’s high-definition lenses and the hydrophobic Guard-ion coating that keeps the glass clean and clear in wet or dusty conditions. The HTMR reticle paired with the CDS-ZL2 (Custom Dial System) lets you fine-tune elevation adjustments accurately and lock zero settings to avoid accidental changes, which is great for serious shooters who want reliable repeatability.

The side focus parallax adjustment is convenient for quick, on-the-fly focusing from different shooting positions. Durability is a strong point here—the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, built to withstand tough outdoor environments. Plus, Leupold backs it with a lifetime guarantee, which adds peace of mind. One minor consideration is the 30mm tube diameter, which is slightly smaller than the popular 30mm or 34mm tubes on some other scopes, potentially limiting light transmission and mounting options. The field of view is decent at about 38 feet at 100 yards, suitable for general hunting needs.

Leupold scopes typically offer comfortable eye relief distances to avoid recoil injury. This scope is well suited for hunters and marksmen needing a durable, accurate scope that performs well in variable conditions without being overly large or heavy.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a high-quality option designed for hunting enthusiasts. It offers a versatile magnification range from 3x to 15x, making it suitable for both short and long-range shooting. The 44mm objective lens diameter ensures good light transmission, contributing to clear and bright images, even in low light conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex Reticle aids in target acquisition, particularly in poor lighting, which is a significant advantage for hunters.

Additionally, the side focus parallax adjustment allows for quick and precise focusing from any shooting position, enhancing the shooting experience. The scope is built with durability in mind; it is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, ensuring it can withstand harsh environmental conditions. The Guard-ion lens coating is a notable feature that helps maintain a clear view by repelling dirt and water.

The Custom Dial System (CDS) with ZeroLock 2 is a unique feature that allows for easy, accurate elevation adjustments and prevents accidental dial movement. This is particularly beneficial for shooters who need to make quick adjustments in the field. However, it’s worth noting that the scope is relatively heavy at 1 pound, which might be a consideration for some users. Additionally, the price point may be higher compared to other models, making it an investment for serious shooters. The scope does not have night vision capabilities, which could be a drawback for those needing this feature.

In summary, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a robust and feature-rich option ideal for hunters seeking reliability and precision in a variety of conditions.