10 Best Tactical Scopes 2026 in the United States

The NIGHTFORCE ATACR 1-8×24mm scope is designed for serious hunters and tactical shooters. It features a versatile magnification range from 1x to 8x, making it suitable for both close and long-range engagements. The 24mm objective lens and high-quality ED glass ensure excellent clarity and brightness, even in low light conditions, while the FC-DMX first focal plane reticle provides accurate hold points across all magnifications.

The scope includes low-profile capped turrets that prevent accidental adjustments and a convenient Power Throw Lever (PTL) for quick magnification changes. Eye relief is a comfortable 3.7 inches, minimizing the risk of recoil-related injuries. The fixed parallax at 125 meters may not be ideal for users needing adjustable parallax for precise long-range shots, but it simplifies the design for quick adjustments in the field. The 34mm tube enhances durability and allows for substantial internal adjustment range.

One potential drawback is the lack of night vision compatibility, which could limit use in complete darkness. The scope is lightweight at 1.3 pounds and built to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it reliable for various environments. It comes with helpful accessories, including flip-up covers, a cleaning kit, and a multi-tool. The NIGHTFORCE ATACR stands out for its robust construction, precise adjustment features, and clear optics, ideal for hunters and tactical shooters seeking a high-performance, reliable scope.

The ATN X-Sight 5 LRF is a versatile tactical scope designed for both day and night use. It offers a solid magnification range of 3-15x, allowing you to zoom in on targets clearly at various distances. The scope features a high-quality 12MP sensor and Ultra HD 4K+ resolution which delivers sharp, vivid images with true-to-life colors. Night vision mode is a standout feature here, providing crisp visuals even in low light, which is important for tactical or hunting situations after dark.

This scope comes with multiple reticle options, so you can choose the aiming style that suits your preference and shooting conditions. Parallax adjustment is included, helping to keep your target clear and accurate at different distances. Durability-wise, the scope is made from aluminum, offering a good balance between weight (around 2.1 pounds) and toughness. It’s built to handle outdoor use and the weather conditions you might face while hunting or on tactical missions.

The smart features are where this scope really stands out: it includes a ballistic calculator to make aiming easier with different loads, video recording in crisp 4K quality, and Wi-Fi connectivity for live streaming or transferring videos. The recoil-activated video can capture exciting moments automatically, which can be fun and useful. Some users might find the tech features complex if they prefer simple scopes. Also, the scope is somewhat heavier than basic models, which could affect handling over long periods. Battery life is strong with 14+ hours, but relying on electronic features means you always need to keep it charged. This makes the ATN X-Sight 5 LRF an excellent choice for hunters and tactical users who want advanced digital features combined with reliable optical performance, especially if night vision and video capabilities are important to you.

The Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm is a high-end tactical scope designed for precision shooting at both short and extreme long ranges. Its wide magnification range from 7x to 35x lets you easily zoom in on targets far away, while the large 56mm objective lens helps deliver bright and clear images even in low light. The MOAR F1 reticle, located in the first focal plane, means your aiming points stay accurate across all magnifications, which is great for quick adjustments. The illuminated reticle enhances visibility in various lighting conditions. Eye relief of 3.6 inches provides a comfortable viewing distance, reducing strain during use. With a generous field of view, especially at lower magnification, it’s easier to spot and track targets.

Parallax adjustment down to about 10 meters helps maintain sharp focus on targets at any distance, boosting precision. Built with a durable aluminum body in a weather-resistant Dark Earth finish, this scope can handle rough outdoor conditions. Features like ZeroStop allow quick return to your zero setting, which is helpful in fast-paced tactical scenarios.

The scope is relatively heavy at nearly 40 ounces and quite long at 16 inches, which might affect balance on some rifles. It also comes at a premium price, reflecting its advanced capabilities. This scope is suited for serious hunters or tactical shooters who need versatile, reliable performance from medium to extreme distances and who accept the extra weight in exchange for quality and features.