10 Best Rifle Scopes 2026 in the United States

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm is a versatile rifle scope well suited for hunters and shooters who need precision at both close and long distances. Its wide magnification range from 4x to 32x allows you to comfortably handle fast-moving targets up close and also zero in on small targets far away. The 50mm objective lens helps provide bright and clear images, which is especially helpful in varying light conditions. This scope features a first focal plane reticle (the MIL-XT), meaning the reticle size changes with zoom, allowing accurate holdovers at any magnification—great for competitive or field shooting. The ZeroStop feature makes it quick and easy to return to your original zero setting, saving time and effort in the field.

Parallax adjustment from 11 yards to infinity helps maintain sharp focus on targets at all distances, minimizing aiming errors. Eye relief is 3.5 inches, which is adequate for comfortable viewing without risk of recoil injury, and the field of view ranges from a wide 26.1 feet at low power to a narrow 4.6 feet at max zoom, typical for scopes with such high magnification. The scope’s body is made of durable aluminum with a 30mm tube, providing toughness and weather resistance, suitable for harsh outdoor conditions. On the downside, the relatively narrow eye relief and smaller exit pupil at high magnification can make it a bit challenging to maintain a full sight picture quickly, especially in low light or with moving targets.

The weight, about 1.8 pounds, is on the heavier side, which might affect handling on lighter rifles. Also, while the scope includes helpful accessories like flip-up lens covers and a cleaning cloth, it does not feature night vision capability. This scope represents a strong choice for serious hunters and shooters who want a high-quality, durable, and highly adjustable optic for a broad range of shooting scenarios, especially where long-range precision is needed.

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm rifle scope is designed for serious hunters looking for a versatile and high-performing optic. With a magnification range of 4x to 32x, it excels in both close-range and long-distance shooting, giving you the confidence to engage targets at various distances. The first focal plane (FFP) design ensures that the reticle size adjusts with the zoom level, maintaining accuracy regardless of the magnification, which is a notable advantage for target acquisition.

The illuminated Horus TREMOR3 reticle enhances visibility, especially in low-light conditions, and is engineered for quick shooting and easy wind adjustments. Meanwhile, the ZeroStop feature provides a quick return to your chosen zero setting, which can be quite handy during field use. Also, the parallax adjustment from 11 yards to infinity adds to its usability, allowing for fine-tuning tailored to your specific shooting requirements.

The scope is relatively heavy at 28.6 ounces, which may be cumbersome for some users, especially during extended treks. The eye relief of 3.5 inches is adequate but could be limiting for those who prefer more room to avoid recoil. Additionally, while it’s built for durability and weather resistance, the premium price tag may deter casual users or those just starting out in hunting. In terms of field of view, it offers 26.1 feet at 4x magnification, which is decent but may feel cramped at 32x with only 4.6 feet, making it less ideal for tracking fast-moving targets. This scope is best suited for experienced hunters who demand high performance and versatility in varied conditions, making it a worthy investment for those willing to spend for superior quality.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters looking for versatility and precision. Its magnification range from 3x to 15x allows you to handle both close and longer-range shots comfortably. The 44mm objective lens provides bright, clear images even in low light, thanks to Leupold’s high-definition lenses and Guard-ion coating that repels water and dirt. This helps keep your sight picture sharp without constant cleaning.

The Wind-Plex reticle is simple and effective for quick target acquisition, and the CDS-ZL2 system makes adjusting for bullet drop easier and more reliable by preventing accidental dial movement. Eye relief is generally comfortable for most users with a 30mm tube size, which also helps durability. Speaking of durability, this scope is built tough — it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, made from strong aluminum, and backed by Leupold’s lifetime guarantee, which is reassuring for any outdoor adventure. The side focus parallax adjustment is handy for fine-tuning your view at different distances, improving accuracy.

The scope weighs about 1 pound, which is reasonable but might feel a bit heavy on lighter rifles. Also, while the field of view is adequate at about 7.9 feet at 100 yards, some competitors offer wider views for fast-moving targets. This model doesn’t support night vision, so it’s best suited for daylight use. For those seeking a reliable, clear, and durable scope with precise adjustment features for hunting or general shooting, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 represents a strong option.