As an avid long-range shooter, I’ve spent countless hours behind various rifle scopes, testing their capabilities at extreme distances. There’s something incredibly satisfying about ringing steel at 1000 yards, but it takes the right optics to make those shots consistently. After putting dozens of scopes through their paces this year, I’ve compiled my top picks for the best rifle scopes for 1000 yard shooting in 2025.
Whether you’re a competitive precision rifle shooter, a long-range hunter, or just enjoy pushing your limits at the range, these scopes have the optical clarity, precision turrets, and advanced reticles needed to maximize accuracy at 1000 yards and beyond. I’ve included options at various price points to fit different budgets, but all of these scopes are capable of outstanding long-range performance.
Let’s dive in and take a closer look at the top contenders:
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56
The new Vortex Razor HD Gen III takes the top spot this year with its class-leading glass and innovative L-TEC+ zero system. I was blown away by the optical clarity of this scope – targets at 1000 yards look crisp and bright even in low light. The EBR-7D reticle provides simple but effective hold points.
But what really sets this scope apart is the micro-adjustable zero system. You can dial in your exact zero between clicks, eliminating that frustrating “half click above zero” situation. For extreme precision at long range, this feature is a game-changer.
- The Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 first focal plane scope is built around the perfect balance of magnification and field of view, providing an optical system with the resolution and contrast needed to clearly identify far away targets in scope.
- The completely redesigned turret system features the L-Tec+ Zero Stop with micro adjust, making zeroing ultra-fast and simple and sets a rock steady return to zero with one set screw. The anodized stealth shadow finish provides a low-glare matte finish.
At around $4000, it’s definitely an investment. But for serious long range shooters who demand the absolute best, the Razor HD Gen III delivers.
Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1
Nightforce scopes have dominated precision rifle competitions for years, and the ATACR continues that legacy. The new MOA-based reticle brings Nightforce’s renowned precision to shooters who prefer MOA over MRAD.
- NIGHTFORCE ATACR SCOPE – With its extensive magnification range and legendary ATACR optical performance, via an ED glass package, the ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 gun scope will push the boundaries of even the most capable of today’s long range cartridges; This hunting scope brings the proven performance to an entirely new level that helps shooters to meet and exceed the limits of their precision gun system
- MAXIMUM PRECISION – With parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and 100 MOA of elevation travel, precision is attainable from short range distances to as far as any modern extreme long range gun and cartridge can reach; This gun scope offers an incredible field of view across the entire magnification range, making targets easy to find, identify and engage
I love how positive and precise the turrets feel on this scope. There’s zero slop or mush – just crisp, audible clicks. The glass quality is also outstanding, with excellent light transmission and edge-to-edge clarity.
For pure precision at extended ranges, it’s hard to beat the track record of the ATACR. The only downside is the eye-watering $3500+ price tag.
Leica PRS 5-30x56i
Leica entered the precision rifle scope market a few years back, and they’ve quickly proven they can hang with the big boys. The PRS 5-30x56i delivers the optical excellence you’d expect from Leica, with an incredibly bright and clear image.
What impressed me most about this scope was how smooth and precise all the controls felt. The turrets have a velvety tactile feedback that’s very satisfying to use. The simple but effective PRS reticle works great for both precision shooting and hunting applications.
- Zero-stop: set up individually with on-boarding tool or to deactivate
- Multi-turn elevation turret with level indicator for better orientation
At around $2900, the Leica is still pricey but represents a good value compared to some other high-end options. It’s become one of my go-to recommendations for shooters wanting premium European optics.
Burris XTR Pro 5.5-30×56
Burris has really upped their game in recent years, and the XTR Pro is a serious contender in the precision optics world. The glass quality exceeded my expectations, rivaling scopes costing significantly more.
The standout feature is the tool-less zero system that allows for extremely fast and precise zeroing. I also like that it comes with an extra “race dial” turret that you can customize for your exact load and conditions.
- BURRIS QUICK DETACH RACE DIAL – Outpace the competition with the exclusive Burris Quick Detach Race Dial on the elevation turret. This innovative feature, featuring a “whiteboard” style coating, allows shooters to mark each target’s click value on a given stage using a dry erase marker
- TOOL-LESS ZERO CLICK STOP ELEVATION KNOB – Elevate your accuracy with the Tool-less Zero Click Stop Elevation Knob. Open the Cam Lever on the turret’s top to quickly change zero settings, providing a swift and efficient adjustment for optimal performance
Some may find the styling a bit flashy, but I appreciate that Burris is trying something different. At around $2500, it offers excellent performance for the price.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50
The Viper PST Gen II has been my go-to recommendation for shooters wanting near top-tier performance without breaking the bank. For around $1000, you get excellent glass, precise tracking, and a very capable EBR-7C MRAD reticle.
- The Viper PST Gen II takes incredible performance and rock solid features to new heights. The 5-25×50 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.
I’ve used this scope extensively for both long range target shooting and hunting. While it may give up a little optical performance to the $3000+ scopes, the difference is marginal in real-world use. For most shooters, this scope has everything needed to consistently hit targets at 1000 yards.
Steiner T6Xi 5-30×56
Steiner has a long history of producing rugged tactical optics, and the T6Xi brings that pedigree to the precision rifle world. The SCR2 reticle is one of my favorites, providing an ideal balance of simplicity and useful hold points.
- The T6Xi riflescope series is made in the U.S.A. and offers, the ultimate in precision, ruggedness, and versatility.
- Waterproof / Fogproof / Shockproof
- 6x Zoom Range, Locking windage and elevation turrets
- Low-profile never-lost turrets, Second rotation indicator
The low-profile locking turrets are a nice touch, preventing accidental adjustments in the field. Optical performance is excellent, though I did find the field of view slightly narrower than some competitors.
At around $2600, the Steiner represents a good value in the high-end precision scope market. The transferable lifetime warranty adds peace of mind as well.
Bushnell Match Pro ED 6-24×50
Bushnell has been stepping up their game lately, and the Match Pro ED offers incredible bang for your buck. For well under $1000, you get a very capable precision optic with features normally reserved for much pricier scopes.
The ED glass provides excellent clarity and color rendition. I was impressed by how positive the turret clicks felt – no mushiness here. The DM2 reticle is simple but effective for both target shooting and hunting.
- [BUSHNELL] is a leading Optics manufacturer based in the USA that has been serving the outdoor and wildlife enthusiast for more than 70 years.
- [First Focal Plane] Reticle holdovers are always accurate no matter what magnification you’re on.
- [Parallax goes down to 10 yards] Engage even the closest targets match directors throw at you.
While it may give up some performance to the top-tier scopes, the Match Pro ED punches well above its weight class. It’s become my top recommendation for shooters on a budget.
Tract Toric UltraHD 4-25×50
Tract may not be a household name yet, but they’re producing some seriously impressive optics. The Toric UltraHD delivers outstanding optical performance, with edge-to-edge clarity rivaling scopes costing twice as much.
What really sets this scope apart is the massive 47 MRAD of elevation adjustment. That’s significantly more than most competitors, allowing you to dial for extreme distances without resorting to holdovers.
- The 34mm, one-piece tube provides greater strength and an incredible 47 Mils of elevation adjustment range
- Battery not included.
The only real downside is the somewhat bulky elevation turret. But if you’re looking for maximum elevation travel in a precision optic, the Toric UltraHD is tough to beat at around $1500.
Athlon Cronus BTR Gen2 4.5-29×56
Athlon has been steadily gaining fans in the precision rifle community by offering high performance at reasonable prices. The Cronus BTR Gen2 continues that tradition, delivering the features and performance of scopes costing significantly more.
I’ve been consistently impressed by the optical clarity and precise tracking of this scope. The APLR3 FFP MOA reticle is one of the better MOA designs I’ve used, with an ideal balance of detail and visibility.
- NEXT-GEN PRECISION OPTICS – The Cronus BTR GEN2 is the flagship gun scope in the Athlon Optics lineup that excels in precision applications where every shot counts
- ILLUMINATED RETICLE – The Cronus BTR GEN2 UHD Shooting Scope boasts a first focal plane MOA-based illuminated reticle; With variable brightness settings powered by a single battery
For around $1500, the Cronus BTR Gen2 is an excellent option for shooters wanting high-end performance without the high-end price tag.
Arken SH4 6-24×50 Gen2
Rounding out our list is another budget-friendly option that delivers shocking performance for the price. The Arken SH4 Gen2 can often be found for under $500, yet holds its own against scopes costing 3-4 times as much.
While the glass quality doesn’t quite match the top-tier options, it’s more than adequate for precision shooting at 1000 yards. The zero stop works well, and overall mechanical performance is excellent.
If you’re just getting into long range shooting and don’t want to spend a fortune, the Arken SH4 Gen2 is a fantastic place to start. You may eventually want to upgrade, but this scope is capable of incredible accuracy with proper technique.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right scope for 1000 yard shooting ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. Any of the scopes on this list are capable of outstanding long-range performance in the right hands.
For the absolute best optical quality and features, it’s hard to beat the Vortex Razor HD Gen III or Nightforce ATACR. But don’t discount some of the more budget-friendly options like the Vortex Viper PST Gen II or Bushnell Match Pro ED. These scopes offer most of the performance at a fraction of the price.
Whichever scope you choose, remember that proper mounting, zeroing, and lots of practice are key to consistently hitting targets at extreme distances. A top-of-the-line scope won’t make up for poor fundamentals. But with the right optic and enough trigger time, you’ll be ringing steel at 1000 yards in no time.
So get out there and stretch your rifle’s legs! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making hits at extreme distances. Stay safe, have fun, and keep practicing those wind calls!