10 Best Varmint Scopes 2025 in the United States

The Leupold VX-5HD 3-15x44 riflescope is a highly versatile and reliable option for varmint hunting. With a magnification range from 3x to 15x and a 44mm objective lens, it offers clear and bright images across different distances. The illuminated FireDot Duplex reticle enhances target acquisition in low-light conditions, which is particularly useful for early morning or evening hunts. The side focus parallax adjustment ensures that you can quickly and easily eliminate parallax from any shooting position, maintaining accuracy and focus on your target.

The CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2) system allows precise elevation adjustments while preventing accidental dial movements, which is a great feature for maintaining zero under field conditions. The scope is also built to withstand harsh environments with its waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof design, and the Guard-ion lens coating helps keep the lenses clear in inclement weather. The high-definition lenses ensure sharp image quality, enhancing the shooting experience.

It is important to note that this riflescope is on the heavier side at 1 pound, which might be a consideration for those focused on reducing gear weight. The price point might also be higher compared to other scopes, but the lifetime guarantee provided by Leupold offers peace of mind about the investment. This scope is best suited for dedicated hunters looking for a high-quality, durable, and versatile scope for small game and varmint hunting.

The ATN X-Sight 5 LRF is a versatile varmint scope offering powerful features suitable for both day and night hunting. Its magnification range of 5-25x makes it well suited for spotting and targeting small pests at variable distances. The scope's Ultra HD 4K+ sensor delivers crisp, lifelike images in vivid colors, which is advantageous for identifying small targets. Night vision mode enhances visibility in low light, making this scope useful for early morning or nighttime hunting sessions. A standout feature is the built-in ballistic calculator, which helps shooters make precise adjustments for bullet drop, aiding accuracy at varying ranges.

Constructed from aluminum, the scope provides solid durability while weighing just over 2 pounds, making it manageable to carry. It features a Weaver mount compatible with most rifles for straightforward installation. On the tech side, the scope supports video recording in 4K and live streaming, allowing hunters to capture and share their experiences, although these features may add some complexity compared to simpler scopes. The battery life of 14+ hours supports extended use without frequent recharging.

This scope suits users looking to combine advanced digital features with solid optics for varmint hunting, especially if night vision and video capabilities are valuable. For those seeking a straightforward, no-frills scope, it may offer more features than necessary, and its weight and feature set might be heavier and more complex than traditional varmint scopes.

The Swarovski dS Digital Riflescope 5-25x52 P GEN. II is a high-end, precision scope with several impressive features tailored for varmint hunting. It offers a broad magnification range from 5x to 25x, making it versatile for various distances. The 52mm objective lens ensures clear, bright images even in low light conditions, which is crucial for early morning or late evening hunts.

The illuminated holdover reticle with customizable settings and windage marks allows for precise targeting adjustments, enhancing accuracy significantly. The parallax adjustment aids in maintaining focus on targets at varying distances, while the alignment indicator ensures your rifle is level for each shot, reducing errors. Additionally, the range indication feature, capable of measuring up to 1500 yards, is beneficial for long-range shooting.

The scope’s durability is underlined by its titanium construction, making it both lightweight and robust, withstanding harsh weather conditions. It's also equipped with a limited lifetime warranty, ensuring long-term reliability. However, weighing 2.4 pounds, it might add noticeable heft to your rifle, which could be a drawback for some users. Moreover, being a high-tech digital scope, it may require a learning curve for those not familiar with advanced optics. The need for a CR123 battery for electronic functions adds another aspect of maintenance. This scope is not the most affordable option on the market, but its premium features justify the investment for serious varmint hunters who demand precision and reliability. If you're looking for advanced digital capabilities and are willing to invest in a high-quality scope, the Swarovski dS GEN. II is an excellent choice.