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 Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 riflescope is designed for long-range shooting and competition, offering a versatile magnification range from 5x to 25x. Its large 56mm objective lens ensures good light gathering, helping maintain clear, bright images even in low-light conditions. The EBR-7C MOA reticle sits in the first focal plane, meaning the reticle's subtensions stay accurate throughout all magnification levels, which is great for precise ranging and holdovers. The scope features a side parallax adjustment with easy-to-read range markings, allowing shooters to quickly eliminate parallax error for sharper target focus at various distances.

Eye relief is 3.6 inches, providing comfortable viewing while protecting the shooter's eye from recoil. The turrets offer up to 85 MOA of adjustment, giving ample turret travel for elevation and windage corrections, and include the RevStop Zero system for quick return to a known zero point. Made with durable aircraft-grade aluminum and protected by Armortek lens coatings, this scope is built to withstand tough conditions, plus it’s fog and waterproof. Weighing 2.2 pounds, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and manageable weight.

Some users might find the eye relief slightly shorter compared to other models, which could require careful mounting. Also, while the large 34mm tube allows extensive adjustment, it may need compatible mounting rings. For serious hunters or competitive shooters seeking reliable, high-quality optics with precise adjustments and excellent clarity, the Venom 5-25x56 stands as a strong contender backed by a lifetime warranty. Beginners may need some time to get accustomed to its advanced features.

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.