10 Best Rifle Scope For Hunting 2026 in the United States

The Vortex Optics Venom 5-25x56 First Focal Plane Riflescope is designed primarily for long-range hunting and competition. It offers a substantial magnification range from 5x to 25x, giving hunters flexibility in various scenarios. The large 56mm objective lens enhances light transmission for clear images even in low-light conditions, critical for dawn or dusk hunts. The EBR-7C reticle ensures precision at all magnifications, which is beneficial for accurate target measurement and ranging. Additionally, the scope's eye relief of 3.6 inches provides comfort and safety, especially with high-recoil rifles.

The 34mm tube allows for extensive turret travel, aiding long-distance shooting adjustments. The scope's durability is also notable: it is nitrogen-purged and o-ring sealed to be water and fog-proof, and its lenses are coated to resist scratches and oil. The one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction ensures it can handle rough terrain and frequent use. However, it is relatively heavy at 2.2 pounds, which might be a consideration for those trekking long distances. The price point could also be a factor, as it is geared towards serious hunters or competitors rather than casual users.

The lifetime warranty offers peace of mind, promising repair or replacement with no fuss. Despite its strengths, the scope might lack night vision capability, which could be a drawback for some users. The Venom 5-25x56 is an excellent option for those needing a durable, high-performance scope for long-range hunting or competitive shooting.

The Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm scope is a versatile and powerful choice for hunters who need precision at various distances. Its wide magnification range from 4x to 32x allows you to easily switch between close, fast-moving targets and distant small game, offering a lot of flexibility in the field. The large 50mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, contributing to clear, bright images even in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. This scope’s MOAR F1 reticle is designed for accuracy, featuring clear, bold aiming points and fine markings that help with precise shot placement and range estimation. The first focal plane reticle means the aiming points stay accurate at all magnification levels, which is a significant benefit for long-range hunting.

With an eye relief of 3.5 inches, the scope provides a comfortable viewing distance and helps prevent scope-related injuries from recoil. It also includes parallax adjustment that starts as close as 11 yards, allowing accurate focus at both near and far distances. The scope’s durable construction and weather resistance make it suitable for tough outdoor conditions, and useful extras like ZeroStop let you quickly return to your zeroed settings after adjusting, saving time in the field.

On the downside, it weighs nearly 29 ounces and is relatively long at over 13 inches, which might add bulk to lighter rifles or feel heavy during extended use. Additionally, it comes with a 30mm tube diameter, which is standard but might limit mounting options compared to larger tubes. This NX8 model is ideal for serious hunters who value precision, versatility, and ruggedness, especially when engaging targets at varied distances. Beginners might find it a bit complex, but its features provide excellent support for learning and advancing shooting skills.

The ZEISS LRP S3 6-36x56 riflescope is built for serious long-range hunting, offering a wide magnification range from 6x to 36x which allows you to zoom in closely on distant targets. Its large 56mm objective lens helps gather plenty of light, providing a bright and clear view even in lower light conditions like dawn or dusk. The first focal plane design means the reticle scales with magnification, so holdover marks stay accurate at any zoom level. The illuminated reticle with both red and green options and five brightness levels enhances aiming precision during different lighting situations, focusing illumination on the center only to avoid clutter. It also features a locking windage turret and a ballistic stop, making it easier to adjust and return to zero quickly — a big help when hunting in windy conditions or changing distances.

With a field of view of about 20 feet at 100 yards, you get a decent balance between seeing enough of your surroundings and focusing on your target. This scope is built tough with a 34mm tube and thick metal walls, passing heavy shock tests to handle recoil and rough outdoor use well. The weight is on the heavier side, which might be noticeable during long hunts. Those who prioritize high-quality optics, precise adjustments, and durability for long-range hunting will find the ZEISS LRP S3 to be a strong contender, while those looking for a lighter or simpler scope might find it somewhat bulky and complex.