Hey there, fellow hunters! Joel Mccartan here, and boy, do I have a treat for you today. As we gear up for the 2024 hunting season, I’ve been putting the latest and greatest rifle scopes through their paces. Let me tell you, the advancements in optics technology never cease to amaze me. Whether you’re after whitetail in the Midwest, elk in the Rockies, or varmints on the prairie, I’ve got you covered with the best optics to help you bag that trophy.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Joel, there are so many scopes out there. How do I choose?” Well, don’t you worry. I’ve done the hard work for you, testing everything from budget-friendly options to high-end glass that’ll make your wallet weep (but your eyes rejoice). I’ve spent countless hours in the field and on the range, putting these scopes through their paces in all sorts of conditions. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the cream of the crop for 2024.
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of each scope, let’s talk about what makes a great hunting scope. First and foremost, optical clarity is king. You need a scope that’s going to give you a crystal-clear image, even in those crucial low-light moments at dawn and dusk. Durability is another key factor – your scope needs to withstand the bumps, bangs, and environmental challenges of the hunt. Magnification range, reticle type, and adjustment features are also important considerations. And of course, we can’t forget about value for money – not everyone wants to drop a month’s rent on a scope!
With all that in mind, let’s dive into our top picks for 2024:
Best Overall: Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40
When it comes to a do-it-all hunting scope that won’t let you down, the Leupold VX-3HD is hard to beat. I’ve taken this scope from the dense hardwoods of Pennsylvania to the wide-open spaces of Montana, and it’s performed flawlessly every time.
The VX-3HD boasts Leupold’s Twilight Max HD Light Management System, which is a fancy way of saying it gives you an extra 20 minutes of shooting light at dawn and dusk. Let me tell you, those extra minutes can make all the difference when that big buck steps out at last light. I’ve been in that situation more times than I can count, and having a scope that can cut through the gloom is invaluable.
- Model #180617 – VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 Riflescope with a Duplex Reticle, CDS-ZL and a Matte finish
- The CDS-ZL (ZeroLock) provides quick dialing of elevation adjustment while eliminating accidental dial movement with the push-button ZeroLock system. It also features Leupold’s award-winning Custom Dial System (CDS), which allows shooters to order a laser-marked bullet-drop dial to match their exact ballistics and conditions.
The 3.5-10x magnification range is perfect for most hunting situations. At 3.5x, you’ve got a wide field of view for those close encounters in the woods. I remember one time in the Pennsylvania mountains, a nice 8-point buck jumped up practically under my feet. That low magnification allowed me to get on target quickly and make a clean shot. Crank it up to 10x, and you can easily pick out details on animals at 300+ yards. This versatility means you’re prepared for just about any hunting scenario.
One feature that’s really won me over is the CDS-ZL2 Zero Lock elevation dial. Once you’ve got your scope zeroed, you can set the dial to your specific load. Then, when you’re out in the field, just range your target and dial to that distance. No more guessing holdovers! It’s a game-changer for longer shots, especially in open country where you might be taking shots at varying distances.
The VX-3HD is also built like a tank. It’s waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof, so you don’t have to baby it in the field. I’ve used mine in pouring rain, freezing temperatures, and even dropped it once (don’t tell Leupold), and it’s kept on ticking without missing a beat.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – all this performance must come at a premium price. And you’re not wrong. At around $700, it’s not the cheapest option out there. But in my book, the optical quality, features, and legendary Leupold durability make it worth every penny. It’s an investment that will serve you well for many hunting seasons to come.
Best Value: Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40
Now, I know not everyone wants to drop a big chunk of change on a scope. That’s where the Vortex Crossfire II comes in. This little workhorse delivers a lot of bang for your buck, and it’s become my go-to recommendation for hunters on a budget.
First off, let’s talk about Vortex’s warranty. It’s legendary in the industry, and for good reason. They’ll replace or repair your scope no questions asked, even if you run it over with your truck (not that I’m speaking from experience or anything…). This kind of customer service gives you peace of mind, especially when you’re investing in gear for your passion.
- The 3-9×40 Crossfire II riflescope is one of many configurations in the Crossfire II line. The V-Plex reticle is a popular all-purpose hunting reticle intended for a wide variety of hunting applications.
- With long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, you’ll be able to quickly get a sight picture and acquire your target. The fast focus eyepiece allows quick and easy reticle focusing.
The Crossfire II features a Dead-Hold BDC reticle, which is a game-changer for newer hunters or anyone who doesn’t want to mess with dialing turrets. It gives you holdover points for shooting at different ranges, which is super handy when that elk is standing there at 300 yards and you don’t have time to fiddle with adjustments. I remember using this scope on a mule deer hunt in Colorado. We spotted a nice buck across a canyon, and I was able to quickly use the BDC reticle to make a perfect shot without touching the turrets.
The glass clarity on the Crossfire II is impressive for a scope in this price range. No, it’s not going to match the Leupold or Zeiss, but it’s more than adequate for ethical hunting shots out to 300 yards or so. The fully multi-coated lenses do a good job of light transmission, giving you a bright, clear image even as the sun starts to dip below the horizon.
One thing to note is that the eye relief can be a bit unforgiving, especially at higher magnifications. You’ll want to make sure you’re mounted properly to avoid the dreaded “scope eye.” Trust me, nothing ruins a hunting trip faster than a scope-shaped bruise on your forehead.
The Crossfire II is also nice and lightweight, which you’ll appreciate if you’re doing a lot of hiking or stalking. It won’t weigh down your rifle, making those long days in the field a bit more bearable.
At around $200, the Vortex Crossfire II represents incredible value for money. It’s a scope that will serve most hunters well without breaking the bank. If you’re just getting into hunting or you need a solid scope for your backup rifle, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Best for Long-Range: Zeiss LRP S5 3-18×50
Alright, long-range enthusiasts, this one’s for you. If you’re the type who likes to stretch the legs of your rifle and really reach out there, the Zeiss LRP S5 is going to blow your mind. This is the scope for those of you who view long-range shooting as both an art and a science.
First things first – the glass on this scope is something else. It’s so clear, you’ll think you can reach out and touch your target. The edge-to-edge clarity is unreal, which is crucial when you’re trying to spot animals at extreme distances. I’ve used this scope to spot prairie dogs at over 800 yards, picking out their tiny forms against complex backgrounds with ease.
- Features: The LRP S5 utilizes a 34mm main tube, European-style fast-focus eyepiece, Ballistic Stop elevation turret, and an external locking windage turret
- Highly Repeatable and Tactile Turrets: The precise adjustments provide you with absolute assurance of making the most accurate shots possible regardless of distance
The LRP S5 features a first focal plane reticle, which is a must for true long-range work. Your holdovers remain consistent no matter what magnification you’re on. And speaking of holdovers, the reticle on this bad boy is like a Swiss Army knife of aiming solutions. Wind holds, elevation holds, it’s all there. Once you learn to read it, you’ll have all the information you need right there in your field of view.
One of my favorite features is the external locking windage turret. No more worrying about bumping your dials and throwing off your zero when you’re trekking through rough country. The clicks are positive and audible, even with gloves on, which is a nice touch for those cold-weather hunts.
The Ballistic Stop zero setting is another fantastic feature. It allows you to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots. This came in handy for me on an antelope hunt in Wyoming. I had to dial significant elevation for a long shot on a buck, but right after that, another one popped up much closer. Being able to quickly return to my 100-yard zero made all the difference.
Now, I have to be honest – this scope ain’t cheap, folks. We’re talking well north of $2,000. It’s an investment, to be sure. It’s also on the heavier side, so it might not be ideal if you’re doing a lot of run-and-gun style hunting or long backcountry treks where every ounce counts.
But if you’re serious about long-range hunting and shooting, and you want the absolute best, it’s hard to beat the Zeiss LRP S5. It’s the kind of scope that will make you a better shooter, giving you the tools to make those ethical long-range shots with confidence.
Best Tactical Crossover: Vortex Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50
For those of you who like to split your time between the hunting fields and the precision rifle range, the Vortex Razor HD LHT is a scope that can do it all. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of rifle scopes – versatile, reliable, and high-performing in a variety of situations.
The Razor HD LHT strikes a great balance between hunting-friendly features and precision rifle capabilities. At 4.5x, you’ve got plenty of field of view for closer shots in the woods or quick target acquisition. Crank it up to 22x, and you can easily make ethical shots out to 600 yards and beyond (assuming you’ve got the skills and the right conditions, of course).
- The Razor HD LHT 4.5-22×50 FFP riflescope answers every demand of the long-range hunter, and is still among the lightest in its class while adding first focal plane functionality and a higher mag range.
- The HD optical system and premium XR coatings generate unparalled image quality and brightness. Index-matched apochromatic lenses correct color across the entire visual spectrum. Armortek coatings protect the lenses.
The EBR-7C MOA reticle is a thing of beauty. It’s clean and uncluttered at low magnifications, making it great for those close-in shots where you don’t want a bunch of clutter in your sight picture. But zoom in, and you’ve got a full set of reference marks for holdovers and wind calls. I’ve used this scope for everything from whitetail hunting in thick woods to long-range coyote control, and it’s performed admirably in every situation.
Let’s talk about the L-TEC turret system, because it’s a work of art. The clicks are positive and audible, and there’s zero slop in the adjustments. The zero stop is easy to set, and you can quickly return to your 100-yard zero after dialing for long shots. This is crucial for hunters who might need to take a long shot one minute and a close shot the next.
The glass quality on the Razor HD LHT is outstanding. Vortex has really stepped up their game in recent years, and this scope can hang with optics costing much more. The APO optical system delivers excellent color fidelity and contrast, which can be a real asset when you’re trying to pick out a well-camouflaged animal against a complex background.
One potential drawback is the weight. At around 21.5 ounces, it’s a bit on the heavy side for a hunting scope. This might be an issue if you’re doing a lot of backcountry hunting where every ounce counts. However, for most hunting situations and certainly for any tactical or competitive shooting, the weight is a non-issue.
The Razor HD LHT isn’t cheap, typically retailing for around $1,400. But for a scope that can pull double duty for both hunting and precision shooting, it represents good value. It’s the kind of optic that will elevate your shooting game, whether you’re in the deer woods or on the competition range.
Best Budget Option: Meopta Optika5 2-10×42
Last but certainly not least, we’ve got a fantastic option for hunters on a budget. The Meopta Optika5 delivers a lot of performance without breaking the bank. Meopta might not be a household name like some of the other brands, but they’ve been making quality optics for years, and this scope is a testament to their expertise.
The first thing that struck me about the Optika5 is the glass clarity. It punches well above its weight class in this department. I’ve compared it side-by-side with scopes costing twice as much, and the difference is minimal. The fully multi-coated lenses do an excellent job of light transmission, giving you a bright, clear image even in low-light conditions.
- MEOBRIGHT – This Gun Scope incorporates an ion-assisted lens multi-coating applied to all air-to-glass optical surfaces; Developed by Meopta, these multi-coatings eliminate glare and reflections and deliver an industry leading 99.8% light transmission per lens surface
The 2-10x magnification range is super versatile. At 2x, you’ve got an ultra-wide field of view for those close-range shots in thick cover. I’ve used this scope for deer hunting in dense Eastern forests, and that low magnification is a godsend when a buck suddenly appears at 30 yards. At 10x, you can easily take ethical shots out to 300 yards or more. This versatility means the Optika5 can serve you well in a wide variety of hunting situations.
I appreciate the simple duplex reticle on this scope. It’s clean and uncluttered, which I find beneficial when trying to pick out a deer in heavy cover. Sometimes less is more, especially in hunting situations where speed is of the essence.
The Optika5 is built on a 1-inch main tube, which means you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to mounting rings. This might not seem like a big deal, but trust me, it can save you a headache when you’re setting up your rifle.
One area where the budget-friendly nature of this scope shows through is in the turret adjustments. They’re not quite as crisp as some of the more expensive options we’ve looked at. But honestly, for most hunting applications, you’re going to set your zero and leave it alone anyway. If you’re not planning on doing a lot of long-range shooting or dialing for elevation, this won’t be an issue.
At around $400, the Meopta Optika5 represents incredible value for money. It delivers the optical performance and features of scopes costing much more, making it an excellent choice for hunters who want quality glass without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, folks – my top picks for the best rifle scopes of 2024. As you can see, there’s something here for every type of hunter and every budget. Remember, the “best” scope is the one that fits your needs, your rifle, and your budget. Don’t get too caught up in the marketing hype or chasing the latest and greatest if it’s not practical for your hunting style.
When choosing a scope, consider the type of hunting you do most often. If you’re primarily a whitetail hunter in the Eastern woods, you might not need the same features as someone who’s taking long shots at mule deer in the West. Think about the conditions you’ll be hunting in, too. Will you be out in all weather? Do you often find yourself hunting in low light?
It’s also worth considering the rifle you’ll be mounting the scope on. A heavy, high-magnification scope might not be the best choice for a lightweight mountain rifle. Conversely, if you’re setting up a dedicated long-range rig, you might want to invest in a scope with more advanced features.
No matter which scope you choose, make sure to spend plenty of time at the range getting familiar with it. Learn how to use the reticle, practice with the turrets if your scope has them, and get comfortable with the eye relief. The best optic in the world won’t do you any good if you don’t know how to use it when that buck of a lifetime steps out.
Remember, too, that proper mounting and zeroing are crucial. If you’re not confident in your ability to mount and zero a scope correctly, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional gunsmith. A poorly mounted scope can lead to frustration and missed opportunities in the field.
Lastly, take care of your optic. Keep the lenses clean, protect it from unnecessary bumps and bangs, and store it properly when not in use. A quality rifle scope is an investment, and with proper care, it should serve you well for many hunting seasons to come.
As we wrap up, I want to emphasize that while having good gear is important, it’s not everything. The most crucial factors in hunting success are woodsmanship, patience, and ethical behavior in the field. A fancy scope won’t make up for poor hunting skills, but it can certainly enhance the skills you’ve developed.
I hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect rifle scope. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, there’s never been a better time to be in the market for quality optics. The technology just keeps improving, and features that were once reserved for high-end scopes are now trickling down to more affordable options.
Remember, the goal is to make clean, ethical shots and fully appreciate the hunting experience. A good scope is a tool to help you achieve that goal. Choose wisely, practice diligently, and above all, enjoy your time in the great outdoors.
Happy hunting, and may your crosshairs always find their mark!