You were gone for hunting but came back empty-handed and you think the targets have grown smart because you were fully equipped with a fancy shooting gun or rifle, yet didn’t hit any?
That’s not the case. The simple logical explanation is, if your shooting gear is top-notch and still you’re unable to hit the bull’s eye, then there’s something wrong with your riflescope.
It is not a 3D shooting game where you’ll get another take after one failed attempt. In real shooting combat, if you miss the target, it means you are screwed. Your missed shot alerts your prey and it runs off before you get another chance to lock the target.
Table of Contents
Best Riflescope for the Money 2021 Reviews
You’ll remain ordinary gunslinger missing shots, unless you up your riflescope game to match your fancy rifles. A good and best riflescope will not only give you the best field of view but also make sure that you hit the bullseye every single time with its excellent optical system, despite the weather conditions and range of your kill.
Keeping in mind the vitality of riflescope we have picked a few riflescopes that are assumed to be the best in shooting arena.
Top Riflescope for the Money Comparison Table
No. | Preview | Product Name | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |  | Simmons 511039 - Best Top Rated Riflescope | ||
2 |  | Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen ll - Best Medium- Range Riflescope | ||
3 |  | Athlon Optics, Argon BTR - Best Begginer Riflescope | ||
4 |  | Steiner Model 5122 T5Xi - Best SCR Reticle Riflescope | ||
5 |  | Nikon Black X1000 6 – Best Far Range Riflescope | ||
6 |  | BARSKA AC11876 Best Contour Riflescope | ||
7 |  | Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE ll | ||
8 |  | ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart | ||
9 |  | ATN X-Sight ll HD 3 | ||
10 |  | Swarovski Optik Z6i |
1. Simmons 511039 – Best Top Rated Riflescope
Don’t start judging it by its .22 scope. The sturdy one-piece scope packs such features that will take you by surprise.
For a budget scope, this offers great durability and strength in actual field use. And by field we mean small game hunting, varmint hunting, or target shooting; it will give reliable performance for all.
Its optics are fully coated but the sweet punch comes with its HydroShield layering for a clear picture despite the weather conditions.
Hold the gun tightly with your gloves on with its SureGrip adjustments. Be sure that neither the gun nor the target is going to slip out of your hand.
Another relieving factor is that it captures the target with record swiftness due to its QTA (quick target acquisition) eyepiece, giving you decent eye relief; one less thing to worry about. Also, elevation adjustments are included for better shooting.
It comes with mounting rings so securing it on your rifle is a game. You might have issues with reticle but the zeroing will make up for it. Is there any other scope that offers so much, and that too under 100 bucks? Of, course not!
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Extremely low price.
- One-piece sturdy body.
- HydroShield lens coating.
- QTA eyepiece.
- SureGrip rubber surface.
- Reticle and adjustment problems.
2. Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen ll – Best Medium-Range Riflescope
This is not the most economical model available in the market, but it’s wise to cry once and then enjoy a lifetime of amazing hunting experience.
Vortex has made sure that from structure to target adjustments you get everything top-notch. You’ll be amazed to know that its JM-1 BDC red dot illuminated reticle helps expeditious point blank shooting up to 600 yards with absolute precision; better than what you expect.
Like Swarovski Z6i, this one also has second focal plane (SFP) reticle. Meaning, reticle scale will remain undisturbed despite the magnification. In short, one less thing to worry about.
Wait, the show is not over yet. Its optic system will leave you dumbfounded because it’s that amazing. All lenses have anti-reflective coating for maximum light transmission. Not only this but HD extra-low dispersion glass gives you a crisp and clear image of the object of your interest.
The lenses Armortek covering so, of course they are scratch-resistant and also oil-resistant.
If you think that’s all, then you have another surprise coming. The red dot comes with 11 brightness levels. Wow! And there’s an “off” click between each setting for quick and trouble-free adjustment to your desired illumination level.
All in all, it has packed all the cutting-edge features to help you reach the pinnacle of your shooting experience.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Perfect for short to medium-range shooting.
- HD glass lenses with anti-reflective layering.
- Illuminated reticle with Red Dot speed.
- Ideal for hunting, competition and self-defense.
- The red dot merges into vertical crosshair at maximum illumination level.
- Restricted battery life.
3. Athlon Optics, Argon BTR – Best Begginer Riflescope
A riflescope that is not only long-range but also comes in 30mm aircraft grade aluminum tube, that also in a very low price, is a definite YES!
For such low-cost, you think the glass quality will be average. But the case is quite opposite because you will get a 1080p crisp and clear image. Stunned, aren’t you? However, the image gets blurry at higher magnifications.
It will make up for the worsening picture quality with 11 brightness configurations illuminated reticle. Meaning, you can not only see clearly in any lighting condition but also adjust brightness to your preferred degree. Moreover, the multi-coated lenses not only offer decent light transmission, but are also protected from dirt and grease.
Another good thing, the reticle is engraved on the glass providing long-lasting performance and greater shock resistance to rebound.
In addition to that, the scope is argon purged. Meaning, there’s no doubt in its being water-and-fog proof as well as shockproof.
If you are still indecisive, then this last punch is definitely going to make you buy it without further delay. Its comes with a first focal plane (FFP), a feature that is exclusive to high-priced scopes. Whether you are zooming in or out your target, the reticle will adjust accordingly.
To top it all, its zeroing and tracking is marvelous. So, just zoom in and bullseye!
In simple words, you are getting all the pomp and show of advanced scopes at a negligible price.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Durable build in a reasonable price.
- First focal plane.
- Ideal for long-range shooting.
- Amazing tracking.
- Multi-coated glass lenses.
- Limited eye relief.
- Blurry image on higher magnifications.
4. Steiner Model 5122 T5Xi – Best SCR Reticle Riflescope
Are you preparing for a shooting competition? Then Steiner T5Xi is definitely what you need to lead the game. Its unrivalled clarity and precision in long-range shooting ensure that you get nothing less than the victory slot in combats and competitions.
The highlight of the model is its special competition reticle (SCR), specifically designed for combats and shooting competitions with its wide illumination region, windage and holdover. No wonder you are a shoo-in!
The one-piece 34mm sturdy tube is reliable, not to mention waterproof – 33” submersible – and shock-resistant.
Its optical performance is drool-worthy because of 56mm objective, which offers transmission of light to improve low-lighting environments. Also, the optics are anti-reflective and come with diopter adjustment range of +2 – -3. To prevent accidental disruption of diopter settings, it comes with a locking mechanism. So, it’s a win-win.
In competitions, time is of great essence. A microsecond delay in action will turn you into a loser. Keeping that in mind, T5Xi has included a throw lever for swift zooming. In addition to this, the lifting dial has added another rotation index to clarify your location on the dial without taking your eyes off the target.
All in all, this model ensures that you land in shooting arena fully geared to win.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Special competition reticle for combats and shooting competitions.
- Adjustable windage and elevation turrets.
- Throw lever for quick zooming.
- Second rotation indicator on elevation knob.
- Easy reset to zero.
- Steiner heritage warranty.
- Expensive.
5. Nikon Black X1000 6 – Best Far Range Riflescope
This scope packs that precision and features that hardcore shooters/hunters demand to revamp their game.
Its main tube, 30mm long, is constructed from aircraft grade aluminum and hardcoat anodizing. Absolutely no point in questioning its strength and reliability!
It’s not going to disappoint you in optics as well. Anti-reflective coated lens allows maximum light transference at all magnifications. Nikon went one step further by including a 4-inch sunshade to prevent sun spots and also for providing protection against moisture in wet weather.
When it comes to reticle, this one has glass etched illuminated reticle in SFP. So, there’s no chance of it breaking like a wired reticle. It says X-MOA reticle. You know what this means? It means that this reticle rewards the shooter with highly useful and sophisticated tools for calculating range, holdovers or lifting of the dial.
Furthermore, it has a side-focus parallax adjustment for tuning without disrupting your position. You can use this parallax for a close-range shot too!
Besides, the knob also has knurled outer ring for reticle illumination to help you position the reticle dead-on target even in low lighting.
If you are looking to lock long-range target, up to 1000 yards, this scope will work like a charm. You’ll be tempted to buy because it mounts like a breeze on any rifle.
Icing on the cake, it gives a generous eye relief, 3.6 – 4-inch, to protect your brows in case you’re using a rifle with heavy recoil.
In short, Nikon has made sure that there’s nothing left for you to fret about.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Designed for hardcore shooters/hunters.
- Affordable price.
- Side-focus parallax adjustment mounted with turret.
- Generous eye relief.
- Fog resistant.
- Blurry image above 18x magnification.
6. BARSKA AC11876 – Best Contour Riflescope
It would be unwise to compare it to some high end brands, but this one holds its end pretty fairly; a safe choice if you’re looking for a compact short to medium-range scope in a reasonable price.
It’s a low-power scope; but with 4X magnification you’ll get a clear and sharp image at even 100 yards. Not only this, but you’ll also hit critters every time because it is designed for hunting. So, it’s pretty safe to invest in this one.
The construction is sturdy and reliable with anodized matte finish for scratch-resistance. The design is not only fog and water proof but also includes a sunshade for bright sunlight. Use it for years without a fear!
A nice feature is its dual-illuminated reticle option, green and red mil-dot. You can choose any of the two depending on the lighting conditions. You’re better off with red reticle in dark environment, and the green is best for brighter daylight shooting. Your target has no chance of escaping you.
Optics are impressive too. They are fully-coated to enhance clarity of image against sun glare and reflection.
Another tempting factor is its easy mounting on rifles, do you know why? It’s because this contour scope packs Picatinng/ Weaver style rings. Now mount it in seconds and start locking your target.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Compact construction in a reasonable price.
- Illuminated mil-dot reticle.
- Fully-coated optics with sunshade.
- Easy to mount on Picatinng/Weaver-Style rail.
- Thickness of reticle.
- Limited field of view.
- Restricted eye relief.
7. Nikon PROSTAFF RIMFIRE ll – Best 9x Zooming Lens Rifle Scope
It does not always have to be “go big or go home.” Now you’re wondering how? Simply because of brands like Nikon that pride in giving its users the products with all the bells and whistles in a very reasonable price. Nikon Prostaff Rimfire Riflescope is a case in point.
The Prostaff packs a 40mm objective lens with an impressive magnification of 3 – 9X for a sharp and clear image. The image will remain crisp throughout the zooming range. So, don’t fear the image getting blurry and take your target dead-on like you’re seeing it in HD quality.
With such a big objective lens, one would think that it will feel heavy. But it’s going to surprise you again with its compact and lightweight size.
When you are out for a hunt, the optics make or break the game. Nikon takes them very seriously. Its optical system is completely multicoated for maximum light transference and premium image quality. the reticle is BDC150 form. Meaning, it offers several open circle markers to allow you to see even the tiniest target dead-on.
Like other good scopes, this one also comes in nitrogen purging making it very reliable in harsh weather conditions.
The highlight of the model is its spot-on ballistic compatibility. If you have been in this game for quite a while, you’ll know that to become unstoppable in the hunting arena, you need align your rifle, bullets and scope. This is where Nikon’s Spot-On Ballistic software casts its magic. It will use different data points to make sure your ammo is in-line with the scope – no need to waste your time and bullets.
Zeroing the scope is like a breeze. Isn’t it obvious yet? It does say that the scope packs spring loaded instant zero-reset turrets. It will stay on zero for the next many shots. The more time you it remains on zero, the longer you are in a position to delivering the big hits.
Easy mounting is cherry on the top. Go big by spending less!
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Great accuracy with spot-on ballistic match technology.
- Compact built in a reasonable price.
- Auto zero-rest turrets.
- Fully multicoated optics.
- Reticle is wired and not illuminated.
- Blurry image at close-range with higher magnification.
8. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart – Best 4K Technology Riflescope
As the name suggest, it’s not only a hunting tool but a technology product as well. With its ultra HD 4K sensor, ATN has taken your day/night hunting to a next level.
With so much cutting edge technology, you’ll feel like playing a hunting game on your PC because your calculated shot takes down the target every single time. This is because it has included a ballistic calculator that reckons range, wind, temperature, angle to target, humidity etc. to direct the perfect ballistics for making long-range shots accurately.
The feature that is going to take by surprise is its automatic re cording. Yes, you heard it right. Your once in a lifetime victory shot will become eternal The RAV (recoil activated video) will start recording automatically for you to later revel on triumphant moment at home as many times as you want because it automatically saves it in its built-in memory chip.
Big hunting games always start at night and ANT make sure that yours ends up in a success. It night vision mode offers HD quality vision even in the dark. In short, with this in hand you’re a force to be reckoned with at night as well.
The magic lies in setting it up correctly and your zeroing will be unerring. Is there anything left to worry about?
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Adjustable and dynamic reticle with magnification.
- Ballistic calculator.
- Automatic video recording and streamlining on your device.
- Night vision mode.
- Strong battery, 18+ hours of continuous usage.
- A little heavier to set up.
- Establishing ballistics information without Wi-Fi can be troubling.
9. ATN X-Sight ll HD 3 – 4 Smart – Best Day/Night Riflescope
ATN revels in providing the users with HD quality clear vision day/night. It gives you all the right accessories to make a perfect kill shot. Isn’t that what every shooter/hunter wants?
You are worried that such tools loaded with advanced technology will have a hefty price tag? You’ll be amazed to know that some, like this one, come in a very reasonable price.
The ATN X-Sight ll is like a computer in front of you, bringing together digital imaging and traditional riflescope features.
It is a little heavier than other scopes but packs a 3 – 14 magnification range. Also, its day and night vision comes in various colours to give you crystal clear image of your prey in any lighting.
It’s not just a scope but a digital camera as well because it can take record in HD quality your glory moments and even take snaps, due to its recoil activation video which works upon detecting a shot. You can use them later to not only relive your best hunting moments but as a shooting demonstration too.
Furthermore, turn its Wi-Fi and streamline your hunting episode on your phone or tablet.
Oh, the show is not over yet. The scope’s built-in range finder is icing on the cake. It automatically calculates the distance of your aimed target.
Last but not the least, its built-in ballistic calculator will determine all the necessary element in your bullet’s route allowing you to know where to hold for a perfect shot.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- Built-in ballistic calculator and range finder.
- Records videos and pictures in 1080p.
- Night vision ability.
- Wi-Fi streaming using phone.
- Relatively short battery life without external power source.
1o. Swarovski Optik Z6i – Best Fog-WaterProof Riflescope
Since it’s Swarovski, everything about it screams: “AWESOME!”
Purchasing it will put a dent in your pocket, but once it has revealed all the punches stored in it the hefty price will be the last thing on your mind.
The most important aspect of a riflescope is its focal and zooming ability, and this one here will give you top-notch results in this regard. It offers a large field of view with 3x zooming ability to observe every nook and cranny of your target up to 18x magnification before you pull the trigger.
You still doubt that you’ll miss the target because of low lighting? Absolutely no chance! Its illuminated reticle makes sure that you hit the bullseye with 100% precision whether its dawn or dusk. Furthermore, its automatic day and night control sensor will prevent it from shutting off accidentally on critical junctures.
In addition to that, with 4A-I in the second focal plane, the reticle size will not be disturbed even if you keep magnifying your target’s size.
And when it comes to cleaning dust and grime off the lens, it’s a walk in the park all because of its SwaroClean coating, not to mention that its scratch-resistant too.
And to top it all, its water-and-fog proof quality allows it to pull itself through torrents of rain.
Everything from its sturdy tube to capped turret is made with such impeccable craftsmanship that ensures successful hunting and shooting experience every time.
[joomdev-wpc-pros-cons disable_title=”yes” wpc_style=”wppc-view1″ title_tag=”H3″ title=”Title Here” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” button_text=”Get it now” disable_button=”yes” button_link=”” button_link_target=”_SELF” button_rel_attr=”dofollow”][joomdev-wpc-pros]- 3-18x zoom power for all-round hunting situations.
- 4-point coil system has shockproof ability.
- Illuminated reticle.
- Automatic day and night control sensor.
- Waterproof and fogproof.
- Expensive.
Riflescope’s Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Riflescope for the Money 2021?
Shooting target with precision relies heavily on sight. Firearm users make use of riflescopes to give them the best possible view of their target regardless of lighting conditions. When you look up for riflescope, you get a long list of designs and models. It becomes overwhelming to pick the right one in such a wide choice range.
Buyer’s guides help you like GPS locators in such confusing situations, navigating you through products to reach the right design and model that will serve your needs best. Below buyer’s guide for riflescope underlines those key factors that you need to consider to make the most prudent purchase.
1. Main Tube:
The first and foremost thing that you need to look for is the main tube of the riflescope. It comes in various finishing. You do not want any weather condition to hinder your shooting. Therefore, look for those scopes that come in nitrogen or aluminum purging in its internal lenses as it makes them shock-resistant as well as water- and fogproof.
Usually the tubes vary from 25mm to 34 mm in diameter. However, if you don’t want extra ounce while hunting, opt for 30mm diameter scope.
Note that the larger diameter makes riflescope more sturdy and robust.
2. Magnification Power:
Whether its short- to medium-range shooting or long-range, naked eye is not reliable for precise shooting. Most scopes come with numbers such as 4-16×42 or 4×32 scope. The first one is variable because you can adjust magnification from 4 to 16 according to your comfort while the other one is fixed because its magnification is already set at 4x and you cannot change it.
4x means the image will appear 4 times closer and clearer through the lens. 42 and 32 in above examples are the diameter of objective lens in millimeters.
The larger the magnification range is, the more flexible your scope will be.
3. Objective Lens:
The objective lens is positioned far from shooter’s eye when looking through lens. The second number in the riflescope recognition is the diameter of objective lens. In the above example 4×32, 32 is the diameter of objective lens.
Look for riflescope with bigger objective lens because the larger the diameter, more light it will transmit to see clearer even in darker lighting situations.
Note that the lenses should come with some protective coating for maximum brightness. The best are fully multi-coated lenses.
4. Ocular Lens:
The lens which is positioned nearest to the shooter’s eye when looking through a riflescope is the ocular lens. It is present in the eyepiece. Its diameter is also measured in millimeters. It directly affects the field of view of the scope. So, opt for scope with larger ocular lens to get wider field of view.
5. Field of View:
The view that you see horizontally through riflescope at a 100 yards’ distance is the field of view. A general principle is, the more you magnify the image, your field of shrinks. If you desire a swift target acquisition at a close-range, then it’s better to go for a scope with larger field of view and smaller magnification power.
6. Reticle:
Patterned lines present in the eyepiece when you aim at a target is reticle. These visual markers are also called crosshairs. Reticles come in several designs:
- Crosshair reticle: it’s good for precise shooting, but not ideal for hunting.
- Duplex reticle: it’s well-liked by hunters and shooters. The four thick- to- thin lines combination, thick at the circumference and thin at the center of the circle, is ideal for a moving target.
- BDC reticle: is a modification of duplex reticle. It has a marking at 6 o’clock position for accurate shooting of bullet. BDC reticle is perfect for long-range shooting.
- Mil-Dot reticle: it has milliradian dot on all four lines. This one is complicated and not suitable for beginners. It’s ideal for snipers.
- Illuminated reticle: it has specific light for hunting in low lighting conditions.
7. Focal Plane:
Reticle located in first focal plane (FFP) means it will shrink or grow when zooming in or out the target.
The second focal plane (SFP) is the most widely used style. The reticle maintains its size despite the change in magnification power. Mostly hunters prefer SFP because they are smaller and lighter.
8. Parallax Adjustment:
The scope with parallax adjustments offer a clearer picture sight. Adjustable objective is good for long-range targeting.
Keeping in mind all these factors will ensure that you’re not robbed and end up making the right purchase.
Conclusion:
Shooting/hunting is a venture that needs to be taken seriously. It relies equally on your shooting skills and the gears that you’re using. Your shooting game cannot reach its pinnacles without the perfect riflescope in hand. It takes into account all the necessary variables and features that are required to turn your depressing hunting game into a sure win. With the help of a buying guide you can learn what to look for in a riflescope for best results every single time. Depending on your choice and status of your pocket, you can pick any of the riflescopes mentioned above that serve your interests best.
