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 5 Smart HD Thermal Scope is designed for hunters who want advanced technology to improve spotting and shooting accuracy, especially in low-light or nighttime conditions. Its magnification range of 3-12x offers flexibility for different distances, while the thermal sensor with a 320x240 resolution and 12-micron pixel size helps detect heat signatures clearly. The high-resolution OLED display enhances visibility with richer colors, which makes it easier to identify targets.

This scope includes a customizable reticle system, allowing you to create and share unique reticles, which is a fun and practical feature for tailoring your shooting experience. The built-in ballistic calculator helps you make more accurate shots by providing precise shooting data, reducing guesswork. It also features recoil-activated video recording (RAV) that automatically captures your shots in HD, so you can review your performance or share memorable moments. Additional perks include WiFi and smartphone app control, which modernize the scope’s usability and convenience.

The scope weighs about 1.93 pounds and is somewhat bulky, which might be heavy for some users during extended hunts. It does not have a built-in laser rangefinder (LRF), so you may need an external device for distance measurement. The ATN Thor 5 combines innovative features suitable for serious hunters seeking thermal imaging and smart capabilities, though it might be more than needed for casual users or those preferring simpler optics.