Scopes

Magnification—Fixed vs. Variable

Fixed-power scopes offer a single magnification level—simple, durable, and typically offering better optical clarity per dollar than variable scopes at the same price. Variable scopes adjust magnification across a range, typically expressed as the low-to-high power and objective diameter (e.g., 3-9x40 or 4-12x44). For hunting, a 3-9x or 4-12x variable covers virtually all North American big game applications. Low Power Variable Optics (LPVOs) spanning 1-6x or 1-8x have become the dominant choice for AR-15 and tactical rifles, offering true 1x for close work and magnification for distance. For long-range precision shooting, 5-25x or higher magnification is appropriate.

Vortex—Best Value in Optics

Vortex Optics has built a dominant market position by offering exceptional optical quality at accessible prices, backed by an unconditional lifetime warranty (the VIP warranty replaces any scope for any reason, no questions asked). The Crossfire II in 4-12x44 is one of the best-selling rifle scopes in the country—clear glass, a simple dead-hold BDC reticle, and proven reliability at a price that leaves budget for ammunition. The Diamondback and Viper series step up in optical quality for hunters and precision shooters who want more. The Razor HD Gen III is Vortex’s premium offering, competing with Nightforce and Schmidt & Bender at a lower price point.

Trijicon—Illuminated Precision

Trijicon is best known for the ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight), the fiber-optic and tritium illuminated fixed-power scope that has served U.S. military forces for decades. The ACOG requires no batteries—fiber optics collect ambient light for daytime use and tritium provides illumination in darkness. The Trijicon Accupoint uses the same battery-free illumination system in a traditional variable hunting scope configuration. The VCOG and CREDO series serve precision shooters and hunters who want Trijicon’s glass quality in a more conventional format. All Trijicon optics are built to military specifications for shock, water, and fog resistance.

Burris—American Quality

Burris Optics manufactures scopes in the United States and has been producing quality hunting and tactical optics since 1971. The Fullfield series offers reliable hunting scopes at mid-range prices. The XTR III is Burris’s precision tactical scope, featuring a 34mm tube, zero-stop turrets, and illuminated reticle for long-range use. The RT-6 1-6x24 LPVO is a strong value in the carbine optic category. Burris backs all its products with a Forever Warranty similar to Vortex’s VIP program. For buyers who want American-made optics at reasonable prices with strong warranty support, Burris is consistently the recommendation.

Choosing the Right Scope for Your Rifle

Match scope to application: a 3-9x40 hunting scope is appropriate for a bolt-action deer rifle; a 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO suits an AR-15 for defensive and general use; a 5-25x or higher suits a dedicated long-range precision rifle. Objective lens diameter affects low-light performance—larger objectives (44mm, 50mm, 56mm) gather more light. Tube diameter (1-inch, 30mm, 34mm) affects internal adjustment range and mount selection. First focal plane (FFP) reticles scale with magnification so holdovers are accurate at any power—important for precision shooting. Second focal plane (SFP) reticles are accurate only at the designated power, but are simpler and less expensive.

Where to Go Next

For rifles to mount your scope on, see our Bolt-Action Rifles and AR-15 Rifles pages. Long-range shooters should explore our Bergara and Tikka brand pages for precision rifle options. The Sig Sauer brand page covers Sig’s optics lineup.