The Takeaway:
1. Our Pick: SWFA SS 3-15×42 Tactical Rifle Scope
2. Runner-Up: Primary Arms 4-16×44 Illuminated Mil-dot Rifle Scope
3. Budget Pick: Nikon Monarch BDC Rifle Scope 4-16×50 6775
When you are in the market for the best optics for long-range shooting, quality and price, combined with what you need out on the range, are good starting points for determining which of the many scopes is right for you.
You will need a scope that cannot only clearly see the target but also has the ruggedness for those times when you’re out in the mountains and on the next ridge over is that big horn. That is not the time for the scope to be out of adjustment, and this can happen with less rugged long-range optics. So let’s take a look and discover which is the best scope for long-range shooting.
Our Pick: SWFA SS 3-15×42 Tactical Rifle Scope
The SWFA SS 3-15×42 Tactical Rifle Scope is one of the best long-range rifle scopes for the money. This rifle scope will work whether you’re on the range or storming the beach, as this impressive scope is built to NATO standards. It has an operational temperature range of -50 degrees to the way the too-warm temperature of over 130 degrees and an operational altitude of over 30,000 feet above sea level. It can even handle saltwater depths down to 15 feet below.
This scope is truly amazing, able to handle any conditions you throw at it, and could still be around for your grandkids to fool around with. This waterproof, fog proof and shockproof rifle scope will zero and hold on target in countless conditions and is perfect for the survivalist or prepper. This is a great scope for nearly any range and great for hunting. With clear optics in low light conditions, this is a great scope for the money and one of the absolute best scopes for long-range.
Runner-Up: Primary Arms 4-16×44 Illuminated Mil-dot Rifle Scope
The Primary Arms Illuminated Mil-Dot PA416X Rifle Scope has a four-inch eye relief and one-year replacement warranty. The red-illuminated Mil-Dot will help you take on those targets or games late in the day or early morning when lighting is variable. With its FOV (field of vision) of 6.98 feet at 100 yards, when cranked up to X16, you should have no problem finding your target.
Well, that might be a little too close sometimes, but at X4, the FOV is 26.19 at 100 yards, still allowing you ample enough visibility to see your target and take it down. This could be an issue if you are shooting under twenty-five or so yards, as this is one of the best long-range optics for the money but isn’t really designed for close shooting. This is a good choice as it is also nitrogen purged, making it fog proof, less likely to freeze, and waterproof. This long-range rifle scope should not disappoint.
Budget Pick: Nikon Monarch BDC Rifle Scope 4-16×50 6775
The Nikon MONARCH 3 BDC Riflescope’s 95% light transmission makes it a great scope for long-range shooting with crystal clear optics. The quick focus eyepiece and as much as a four-inch eye relief make target acquisition easy and fast, which makes this also a great hunting rifle scope. The spring-loaded zero-reset turrets allow for making adjustments as necessary easily, should the need arise.
This scope is also waterproof and fog proof, keeping your scope in operation even in inclement weather. It is also shockproof, giving this scope the toughness to stay zeroed on the range or out in the field while mounted on various firearms. This is one of the best long-range optics that should be seriously considered, as it is affordable.
Also Great: Vortex Viper 6.5-20×50 PA Rifle Scope With Mil-Dot Reticle
When looking for one of the best long range optics for the money, the Vortex Viper VPR-M-06MD PA Rifle Scope is a serious consideration. Its Mil-Dot reticle is accurate to 14X and will help you with windage and elevation when you need to make adjustments on the fly. With its clear optics, this high-powered scope makes long-range shooting easier and more on you than you fighting your sight picture.
With as much as 95% light transmission and being waterproof and fog proof, this scope ensures you’ll get the shot in various weather conditions. This scope is also shockproof, making it a good choice for many high-powered rifles. These factors, combined with the durability of this scope, not only make it one of the best scopes for long-range shooting and a great hunting rifle scope.
Final Thoughts on Best Scope for Long-Range Shooting 2025
When choosing the best long-range optics, you seek clarity, ease of use, and range. So, don’t let yourself down if you’re out at the range or in the field hunting. Make sure that you have the proper equipment to get the job done. These scopes are built tough, so their applications should satisfy various uses, from tactical shooting ranges to long-range shooting. They are all built to be used for hunting, making them all very versatile when looking for the best scopes for long-range shooting.
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Best Rifle Scope for the Money
We’ve explored the best rifle scopes for the money, offering detailed reviews to help you make an informed purchase.
Sources and Official Brand Websites:
SWFA | Primary Arms | Nikon | Vortex | Optics Talk