10 Best Sniper Scopes 2025 in the United States

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a versatile and reliable choice for hunters and long-range shooters who need variable magnification from 3x to 15x, allowing clear target acquisition at various distances. Its 44mm objective lens provides bright, sharp images, especially with Leupold's high-definition lenses and the hydrophobic Guard-ion coating that keeps the glass clear in wet or dirty conditions. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle is easy to see in different lighting, which helps with quick target alignment. The side focus parallax adjustment allows shooters to fine-tune focus for precision without changing their shooting position.

The CDS-ZL2 turret system is a standout feature, offering two full revolutions of elevation adjustment with a push-button lock to prevent accidental movement—this is valuable for maintaining accuracy over multiple shots or ranges. The field of view at 38.3 feet is decent for spotting targets, and the scope is lightweight at 16 ounces, making it easy to carry in the field. Additionally, the scope provides good eye relief, which helps in comfortable aiming without straining your eyes. Made with durable aluminum, it’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, so it handles tough outdoor conditions well. The Leupold full lifetime guarantee adds peace of mind.

On the downside, while the scope covers many needs, it does not support night vision compatibility, which could limit use in very low light. Also, some users looking for a larger objective lens for extremely low light conditions might find 44mm slightly limiting. This scope offers a balanced set of features suitable for serious hunters and shooters who want precision, durability, and ease of use.

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 First Focal Plane MOA Riflescope is a high-end option designed for long-range shooting and hunting. It offers a wide magnification range from 6x to 36x, making it versatile for different distances. The 56mm objective lens diameter helps in gathering more light, which is beneficial in low-light conditions. The advanced optics, including Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass and ZEISS T* multi-coated lenses, ensure excellent clarity and 90% light transmission.

The illuminated reticle, visible in daylight, provides precise aiming with five intensity levels and options for red or green illumination. The first focal plane reticle allows for accurate holdovers at any magnification level, which is crucial for long-range shooting. It also features a robust design with a 34mm main tube and can withstand significant shock, making it durable in various conditions. The Ballistic Stop and External Locking Windage Turret enhance accuracy by ensuring a true return to zero and easy windage adjustments.

However, at 39.1 ounces, it is relatively heavy, which might be cumbersome for some users. Additionally, it lacks night vision capabilities, which could limit its use in total darkness. With a price reflecting its premium build and features, it might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those on a budget.

The ATN Thor LTV Ultra-Light Weight Thermal Scope is a solid choice for hunters and shooters looking for advanced thermal imaging in a compact package. It offers variable magnification from 5x to 15x, which is great for medium to longer-range targeting. The 160x120 thermal sensor with a 60Hz refresh rate and ATN's SharpIR technology deliver clear, sharp images day or night, helping you spot game or targets quickly, even in low visibility. Its classic rifle scope design includes multiple reticle options and a generous 3-inch eye relief, contributing to comfortable aiming without straining your eye.

One of its main strengths is the One Shot Zero feature, which simplifies the sighting-in process by instantly calibrating after your first shot—ideal for quick adjustments in the field. Weighing just 1.4 pounds, this scope is lightweight enough to mount easily on most rifles without adding bulk. The durable aluminum alloy construction and standard 30mm mounting make it sturdy and compatible with common setups.

The resolution of 160x120 is somewhat modest compared to higher-end thermal scopes, which might limit detail recognition at extreme distances. The 3-inch eye relief is decent but shorter than some scopes, so proper positioning is important to avoid discomfort. This scope is well suited for hunters and shooters who want a feature-rich thermal scope with solid imaging and ease of use. It delivers clear thermal views, quick zeroing, and lightweight convenience, though it may not satisfy those needing ultra-high resolution or advanced adjustments for long-range precision.