10 Best Scope For Hunting 2026 in the United States

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm hunting scope is a versatile choice for hunters who want a wide range of magnification, from 4x up close to 32x for long-distance shots. This broad zoom range makes it suitable for various hunting situations, whether tracking moving targets or focusing on distant game. The 50mm objective lens, while paired with a 30mm tube, offers good light gathering, resulting in clear images with good resolution. The MIL-XT reticle is thoughtfully designed for quick target acquisition with detailed Mil-Radian holdovers, which helps with accurate shooting even under pressure. Eye relief is a solid 3.5 inches, providing comfort and safety when shouldering the rifle.

The field of view is wide at low magnification, giving you better situational awareness, although it narrows considerably at higher zoom levels, which is common for scopes with such a high magnification range. Parallax adjustment from 11 yards to infinity ensures sharp focus at varying distances, a helpful feature for precise shots. This scope is built tough with an aluminum body and weather resistance, making it reliable in harsh hunting conditions. It also includes handy accessories like flip-up lens covers and a throw lever for quick magnification changes.

The scope weighs nearly 1.8 pounds, which might feel heavy on lightweight rifles, and its advanced features could be complex for beginners. Hunters seeking a rugged, flexible optic that performs well in diverse environments will find the Nightforce NX8 to be a strong contender.

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 Riflescope is a versatile and high-quality option for hunters. Its 3-15x magnification range allows for both close and long-range targeting, making it suitable for diverse hunting environments. The 44mm objective lens ensures good light transmission for a clear, bright view, even in low-light conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle aids in quick target acquisition, especially in dim settings, enhancing your shooting accuracy. Additionally, the side focus parallax adjustment offers quick and easy focusing from any position, adding to the user-friendly experience.

One of the standout features is the CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2) system, which prevents accidental adjustments and offers precise custom dialing to match your specific ballistics and conditions. Leupold's Guard-ion hydrophobic lens coating also ensures that the lenses remain clean and clear, shedding water and dirt effortlessly. Durability is another strong point, as this scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, making it reliable in various weather conditions.

Weighing 16 ounces, it's relatively lightweight for its robust build. However, it's worth noting that the scope is not designed for night vision, which could be a limitation if you require that feature for early morning or late evening hunts. Also, the high-end features come at a premium price, which may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers. For serious hunters who value precision, durability, and advanced features in their equipment, the Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 Riflescope is a top-tier choice.

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.