10 Best Scope For Hunting 2026 in the United States

The ATN Thor 5 LRF is a high-tech thermal scope designed for hunters who want to see clearly in all lighting conditions, including total darkness. Its advanced next-generation thermal sensor paired with a high-resolution OLED display provides detailed and colorful images, helping you spot animals even from a distance. The scope offers a magnification range of 3-12x, suitable for various hunting situations, and the 320x240 resolution balances clarity with a practical field of view, providing comfortable use.

One standout feature is the built-in Laser Rangefinder that allows you to measure distance to your target quickly, improving shot accuracy. Adding to this, the integrated ballistic calculator helps adjust your aim precisely based on environmental factors, which is a big plus for serious hunters. You can also customize and share digital reticles, allowing for a personalized experience. The scope records HD video of your hunts, a nice bonus for reviewing or sharing your adventures.

It’s built from aluminum, promising good durability and weather resistance, but the device is on the heavier side at over 2 pounds, which might be noticeable on long treks. Also, as an ITAR product, it has export restrictions which won’t affect most domestic users but is worth noting. The Thor 5 LRF suits hunters looking for a smart, feature-rich thermal scope with advanced tools to improve shooting accuracy, though it might be more than casual users need and comes with a higher price and weight compared to simpler scopes.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 is a high-end hunting scope designed for precision at both short and very long ranges. Its wide magnification range (7 to 35 times zoom) lets you clearly see targets that are quite close or extremely far away, making it versatile for different hunting situations. The large 56mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, which helps deliver a bright and sharp image even in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. The MOAR F1 reticle, placed on the first focal plane, means the aiming marks stay accurate regardless of zoom level, which is great for adjusting shots quickly on the move. Eye relief of 3.6 inches provides comfortable viewing without needing to worry about recoil.

The scope includes precise parallax adjustment starting from 10-11 yards to infinity, helping keep targets sharp at all distances. Its field of view ranges from 15 feet wide at 7x to a narrower view at maximum zoom, which is typical for scopes with such high magnification. Durability is strong thanks to its 34mm aluminum tube and weather-resistant construction, making it suitable for tough outdoor conditions. The ZeroStop feature allows you to return to your original zero quickly and confidently, a useful function when making rapid adjustments.

The scope is relatively heavy (about 39 oz), which might be noticeable on lightweight rifles or during long treks. Also, the high zoom and advanced features come at a premium price, so it’s best suited for serious hunters or shooters who need top-tier performance. This scope is excellent for hunters looking for extreme precision and flexibility in varied light and distance conditions, though its weight and cost may be factors to consider.

The Swarovski dS Digital Riflescope 5-25x52 P GEN. II is a high-end riflescope aimed at hunting enthusiasts. With a wide magnification range from 5x to 25x, it offers versatility for various distances, making it suitable for both close-range and long-range hunting. The 52-millimeter objective lens diameter ensures ample light transmission, providing clear and bright images even in low-light conditions. This is particularly beneficial for dawn or dusk hunting sessions.

The illuminated 4A-I reticle, which allows users to select from six different reticles, enhances target visibility and accuracy, which is crucial for precise shooting. Additionally, the scope includes windage marks for adjusting to different wind speeds, ensuring better shot placement in diverse conditions. The range indication feature, capable of measuring up to 1500 yards, and the alignment indicator, which displays if the rifle is level, add to its precision capabilities.

The dS Configurator App, which connects via Bluetooth, allows hunters to customize the ballistics profile, making the scope even more tailored to individual needs. Durability is another strong point, with the scope constructed from titanium, known for its strength and lightness, and is also weather-resistant, making it suitable for various hunting environments. However, the scope is relatively heavy, weighing 2.4 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some users during long hunting trips. The inclusion of accessories like a transparent protective cover, microfiber cloth, and adjustment tools is a nice touch, adding to the product's value. Priced at the premium end, this scope is best suited for serious hunters who are willing to invest in high-quality gear. Despite its high price, the limited lifetime warranty on parts and a two-year warranty on electronic components offer some reassurance regarding its durability and reliability.