10 Best Scopes 2026 in the United States

The ATN Thor 5 LRF is a high-tech thermal scope designed primarily for hunting and long-range shooting. It features a magnification range of 3-12x, which provides versatile zoom options suitable for spotting and targeting at various distances. The 320x240 thermal sensor paired with a high-resolution OLED display delivers clear, colorful images, making it easier to detect targets day or night. One standout feature is the built-in laser rangefinder (LRF), which helps you measure the exact distance to your target, improving shot accuracy.

Additionally, the scope includes an advanced ballistic calculator that factors in data to assist with precise aiming, reducing guesswork. You can also customize reticles and share them with others, adding a personal touch to your shooting experience. The ability to record HD video lets you capture your hunting trips, which is a nice bonus. Made from aluminum, the scope is reasonably durable and weather-resistant, important for outdoor use. It offers 30mm standard rings for mounting and has a decent eye relief for comfortable viewing.

The thermal sensor’s resolution is on the modest side compared to some high-end models, and the scope is relatively heavy at 2.1 pounds, which might be noticeable during extended use. Also, it is an ITAR-restricted product, meaning export is limited. This scope is an excellent choice for hunters or shooters who want advanced thermal imaging and ballistic tools integrated into one package, though it might be more capability than casual users require.

The NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8x24mm scope is a high-quality option for hunters seeking a versatile and reliable gun scope. Its magnification range of 1 to 8x allows for both close-range and long-range targeting, making it a flexible choice for various hunting scenarios. The 24mm objective lens diameter ensures enough light transmission for clear images, while the 34mm tube offers robust durability and enhanced adjustment range.

The daylight visible FC-DMX first focal plane reticle helps in precise aiming, and the center red dot aids rapid target acquisition like a red-dot sight. With 3.7 inches of eye relief, this scope is comfortable to use and minimizes the risk of eye strain or injury from recoil. However, the parallax is fixed at 125 meters, which might limit its utility for very close or very long-range shots. The capped turrets prevent accidental adjustments, and the included Power Throw Lever (PTL) ensures quick magnification changes.

The package comes with useful accessories like flip-up covers, a cleaning cloth, and a multi-tool, which add value. Although it lacks night vision capabilities, its performance in daylight conditions and weather resistance make it a reliable companion for hunting. The scope's weight of 1.3 pounds might be a bit heavy for some users, but this is a trade-off for its robust build. This scope is particularly well-suited for hunters who need a durable and flexible scope for various conditions.

The ATN X-Sight 5 LRF Smart Day/Night Scope is a feature-rich option for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts looking for advanced technology in their optics. It offers a magnification range from 5x to 25x, giving you flexibility for various shooting distances. The scope stands out with its Ultra HD 4K+ resolution sensor, providing sharp, colorful images both day and night thanks to its enhanced night vision mode. This makes it quite effective for low-light conditions, which is a big plus if you hunt early mornings or late evenings.

One of the major benefits is the built-in ballistics calculator, which helps you make more accurate shots by factoring in environmental conditions, plus the ability to record video in 4K and stream it live over Wi-Fi. These features are great if you want to review your shots or share your experience. The scope also has a long battery life of over 14 hours, which means less worry about running out of power during your trip.

In terms of comfort, it provides a generous eye relief of 90 mm, reducing eye strain during use. The scope is made from aluminum, offering decent durability and weather resistance, suitable for typical outdoor conditions. It mounts via a Weaver system, which is common and easy to install on many rifles. The scope weighs about 2.1 pounds, which is heavier than many traditional scopes and could affect the balance of lighter rifles. While it offers smart features and tech enhancements, it may have a learning curve for users new to digital scopes. This scope is ideal for tech-savvy hunters who value integrated digital features like video recording and smart ballistics, along with solid day and night performance. Those preferring a simple, lightweight scope without digital extras might find this model heavier and more complex.