Hey there, fellow hunters and .44 Magnum enthusiasts! Joel Mccartan here, back with another deep dive into the world of hunting optics. As someone who’s spent countless hours in the field, I know firsthand how crucial it is to have the right scope on your trusty .44 Mag. Whether you’re after big game or just enjoy some long-range plinking, having a quality optic can make all the difference.
This year, I’ve had the chance to test out a ton of new scopes, and let me tell you – manufacturers are really stepping up their game for 2024. We’ve got some exciting new entries, along with a few tried-and-true favorites that continue to impress. So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s explore the cream of the crop when it comes to .44 Magnum scopes!
Before we dive in, a quick reminder about what makes the .44 Magnum such a beast. This cartridge packs a serious punch, so we need scopes that can handle the recoil while still delivering crisp, clear images and maintaining zero. Durability is key here, folks!
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff – our top 10 picks for 2024:
1. Leupold VX-3HD 2.5-8x36mm Handgun Scope
Leupold has long been a go-to brand for quality optics, and their VX-3HD line continues that tradition. This scope is purpose-built for handguns, making it ideal for your .44 Mag revolver or carbine.
- Model #180616 – VX-3HD 2.5-8x36mm Riflescope with a Duplex CDS-ZL reticle and a Matte finish
- Duplex reticle – Defined by heavy posts, stands out against cover in low light, most popular reticle in the world
Key Features:
– Twilight Max HD Light Management System
– 2.5-8x magnification range
– 36mm objective lens
– Generous eye relief (14.5-15.5 inches)
– Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
Personal Experience: I took this scope out on a whitetail hunt last fall, and it performed beautifully in low-light conditions. The clarity is outstanding, and I had no issues with eye relief even with heavy loads. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but in my book, it’s worth every penny.
2. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Handgun Scope
Vortex has been shaking up the optics world with their combination of quality and affordability. The Crossfire II handgun scope is a perfect example of this philosophy.
- From first to last light, this 2-7×32 Crossfire II Crossbow Scope Kit (scope, 30mm rings, flip caps and neoprene cover) provides hunters looking for accuracy and dependability everything they need to start stacking bolts and filling tags.
- The XBR-2 reticle is specifically designed for crossbows for a 40-yard zero and fast, accurate holdovers from 20-100 yards. The reticle is also equipped with dual illumination, red or green, for accuracy in low light.
Key Features:
– 2-7x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– Long eye relief (9.5-10.5 inches)
– V-Plex reticle
– Fully multi-coated lenses
Personal Experience:This has become my go-to scope for pig hunting. The variable magnification gives me flexibility in thick brush or more open areas. The build quality is solid, and it’s held zero even after some serious recoil. For the price point, it’s hard to beat.
3. Burris Handgun 2-7x32mm Ballistic Plex Reticle Pistol Scope
Burris has a well-deserved reputation for creating rugged, reliable scopes, and their handgun line is no exception.
- 2-7x32mm provides handgun shooters a wide, flexible range
- 2x low end magnification offers quick target acquisition and a very large field of view
- 7x zoom at the top provides accuracy at handgun stretching distances
Key Features:
– 2-7x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– Ballistic Plex reticle
– Long eye relief (11-21 inches)
– Nitrogen-filled for fog resistance
Personal Experience: I’ve put this scope through its paces on my .44 Mag lever gun, and it’s a real workhorse. The Ballistic Plex reticle takes some getting used to, but once you’re dialed in, it’s great for estimating holdovers at various ranges. The eye relief is incredibly forgiving, which is a big plus with magnum loads.
4. Trijicon AccuPoint 2.5-10×56 Riflescope
While not specifically designed for handguns, this Trijicon is an excellent choice for .44 Mag carbines or for those who prefer a more substantial optic on their revolver.
- SUPERIOR QUALITY LENSES: Multi-coated lenses provide superior clarity and light gathering capabilities with zero distortion
- BATTERY-FREE ILLUMINATION: Fiber optic technology automatically adjusts the brightness level and contrast of the reticle aiming point to available light conditions and a tritium phosphor lamp illuminates the reticle in low to no light
Key Features:
– 2.5-10x magnification
– 56mm objective lens
– Fiber optic illuminated reticle (no batteries needed)
– Second focal plane reticle
– Multi-coated lenses
Personal Experience: I mounted this on a Marlin 1894 in .44 Mag, and it’s become my favorite setup for low-light hunting. The light-gathering ability is incredible, and the illuminated reticle is a game-changer at dawn and dusk. It’s on the pricier side, but the optical quality is top-notch.
5. Simmons ProHunter 4×32 Handgun Scope
If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a reliable scope, Simmons has you covered with their ProHunter line.
Key Features:
– Fixed 4x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– TrueZero adjustment system
– HydroShield lens coating
– Shockproof construction
Personal Experience: This scope is a great entry-level option for those new to handgun hunting. I’ve recommended it to several friends getting started with .44 Mag revolvers. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of pricier models, it gets the job done and can take a beating.
6. Leupold FX-II 4x28mm Handgun Scope
Another entry from Leupold, the FX-II is a classic fixed-power scope that’s been a favorite among handgun hunters for years.
Key Features:
– Fixed 4x magnification
– 28mm objective lens
– Duplex reticle
– Twilight Light Management System
– Extremely durable construction
Personal Experience: This scope has been my constant companion on countless hunts. The fixed 4x magnification is perfect for most handgun hunting scenarios, and the optical clarity is stellar. It’s built like a tank and has survived more than a few accidental drops over the years.
7. Bushnell Trophy Handgun 2-6x32mm Scope
Bushnell offers a great mid-range option with their Trophy Handgun scope, balancing features and affordability.
Key Features:
– 2-6x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– Multi-X reticle
– Fully multi-coated optics
– IPX7 waterproof rating
Personal Experience: I’ve found this to be an excellent all-around scope for both hunting and target shooting. The variable magnification is handy, and the build quality is solid for the price point. It’s held up well to the recoil of my .44 Mag loads without losing zero.
8. Sig Sauer Romeo5 Red Dot Sight
While not a traditional scope, a quality red dot like the Romeo5 can be an excellent choice for close-range work with a .44 Mag.
- ROMEO5 GUN SIGHT – The ROMEO5 1X20mm Red Dot Sight mounts on any platform, and even though it’s small, it’s tough; The solid, lightweight aluminum design gives peak performance & years of service, so you can be on the top of a hunt or shooting competition
- 2 MOA RED-DOT – For those avid shooters who admire classic red dot reticles on their gun sights, the Romeo5 has 2-MOA Red-Dot, which is also adjustable; It provides 10 illumination settings (8 daylight plus 2 NV) for visibility in all light conditions
Key Features:
– 2 MOA red dot
– MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination)
– 10 illumination settings
– Waterproof and fogproof
– Includes low and high mounts
Personal Experience: I added this to my .44 Mag revolver for hog hunting in thick brush, and it’s been a game-changer. The quick target acquisition is unbeatable in close quarters, and the battery life is impressive. It’s also tough enough to handle magnum recoil without issues.
9. Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 2-10×32 FFP Riflescope
For those running a .44 Mag carbine and looking for a more tactical-style optic, the Viper PST is worth considering.
- The Viper PST Gen II takes incredible performance and rock solid features to new heights. The 2-10×32 first focal plane riflescope is incredibly versatile and ideal for close to long range scenarios.
- Users who dial their turrets for drop and wind compensation will appreciate the laser etched turrets, adjustable parallax and the RZR zero stop. A fiber optic rotation indicator ensures you can keep track of your turret position with ease.
Key Features:
– 2-10x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– First focal plane EBR-4 MOA reticle
– Illuminated reticle
– Exposed tactical turrets
Personal Experience: I mounted this on a modernized lever gun in .44 Mag, and it’s become my go-to for longer range work. The first focal plane reticle is great for holdovers, and the build quality is top-notch. It’s overkill for most handgun applications, but on a carbine, it really shines.
10. Burris FastFire III Red Dot Sight
Another non-traditional option, the FastFire III is an ultra-compact red dot that’s perfect for close-range work.
Key Features:
– Available in 3 MOA or 8 MOA dot sizes
– Automatic brightness adjustment
– Waterproof
– Low battery indicator
– Lightweight and compact
Personal Experience: I’ve used this on both revolvers and carbines in .44 Mag, and it’s impressively durable for such a small optic. The 8 MOA dot is my preference for quick shooting at closer ranges. It’s a great option if you want something ultra-light and low-profile.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, folks – my top picks for .44 Magnum scopes in 2024. Remember, the “best” scope ultimately depends on your specific needs, shooting style, and budget. Don’t be afraid to try out a few different options to see what works best for you.
Whether you’re hunting big game, competing in handgun silhouette matches, or just enjoying some range time with your favorite .44, having the right optic can make a world of difference.
Happy hunting, and may your shots always find their mark!