As an avid hunter who’s spent countless hours in the field, I know firsthand how critical it is to have the right scope for your rifle. When it comes to the 6.5 Creedmoor – that long-range powerhouse – pairing it with the perfect optic can take your shooting to the next level.
I’ve tested dozens of scopes over the years, but for 2024, these are my top picks for maximizing the potential of your 6.5 Creedmoor:
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP
The Viper PST Gen II has been my go-to scope for long-range shooting with the 6.5 Creedmoor for years now. The glass clarity is outstanding, allowing me to clearly see my target even in low light conditions at dusk and dawn. The EBR-2C reticle in the first focal plane is a game-changer for holdovers and windage corrections.
I love how tactile and precise the turrets feel – you can make adjustments with confidence even with gloves on. The 5-25x magnification range is ideal for pushing the 6.5 Creedmoor out to 1000 yards and beyond.
- 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.
At around $1000, it’s not cheap, but you get premium features without completely breaking the bank. I’ve put mine through hell and back on hunting trips and it’s never let me down.
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56
If you’ve got deeper pockets and want the absolute best, look no further than the Leupold Mark 5HD. The glass quality and light transmission are unmatched – I’ve spotted deer in near darkness with this thing. The Twilight Max HD Light Management System gives you an extra 30 minutes of shooting light.
- Model #176448 – Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope with an M1C3 Front Focal PR-1 MOA reticle and Matte finish
- 100% Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
The TMR reticle is clean and precise for long-range work. Turret adjustments are dead-on reliable. It’s built like a tank but still manages to be relatively lightweight.
Yes, it’s expensive at around $2000-$3000 depending on the model. But if you demand the utmost performance and durability, this is as good as it gets for the 6.5 Creedmoor.
Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56 F1
Another premium option, the Nightforce ATACR is trusted by military snipers and competition shooters alike. The ED glass provides stunning clarity and color. I’m a big fan of the ZeroStop feature that lets you quickly return to your zero.
- EXCEPTIONAL OPTICAL PERFORMANCE – The Nightforce ATACR – 5-25x56mm F1 hunting scope features top-tier ED glass, providing outstanding optical clarity and brightness. This ensures sharp, vivid images, even in challenging lighting conditions, enabling precise target identification and engagement
The illuminated reticle is great for low light, and parallax adjustment goes all the way down to 10 yards. Built like a tank to withstand serious abuse.
Again, you’ll pay a pretty penny at $2500+. But for precision long range work with the 6.5 Creedmoor, it doesn’t get much better.
Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56
For a more budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent performance, check out the Athlon Ares ETR. The glass clarity punches way above its price point. The APRS2 FFP MIL reticle is fantastic for ranging and holdovers.
Turrets track true and the zero stop works great. I’ve taken this out to 1200 yards with my 6.5 Creedmoor and been impressed with the results.
At around $850, it offers a ton of value. Great choice if you want high-end features without completely emptying your wallet.
Burris XTR III 5.5-30×56
Burris has really stepped up their game with the XTR III line. The optical clarity rivals scopes costing twice as much. The zero click-stop turrets are some of the best I’ve used.
- Compatible devices: Rifle
- Quick detach race dial
The SCR2 MIL reticle works great for long range shooting and the side parallax adjustment is smooth. Tracks perfectly even under heavy recoil.
Priced around $1500, it’s a great mid-range option for squeezing maximum performance out of your 6.5 Creedmoor.
Vortex Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56
If you want maximum magnification for extreme long range work, it’s hard to beat the Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56. The glass is absolutely incredible even at max magnification.
The EBR-7D reticle gives you tons of data. Turrets are precise and the zero stop is rock solid.
- 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.
Be prepared to spend close to $4000, but for reaching out to 1500 yards and beyond with your 6.5 Creedmoor, this scope delivers.
Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS II 4.5-30×50
Bushnell’s Elite Tactical line offers great bang for your buck. The XRS II gives you premium features at a more palatable price point. ED Prime glass provides excellent clarity and light transmission.
The G3 reticle is clean but packed with useful data. Turrets track true and the throw lever makes for quick magnification changes.
At around $1500, it’s a solid choice for long range precision with the 6.5 Creedmoor.
Steiner T5Xi 5-25×56
German engineering at its finest. The Steiner T5Xi offers incredibly clear glass and precise controls. The Special Competition Reticle (SCR) is purpose-built for long range precision.
- ULTIMATE ACCURACY – Rely on Steiner’s T5Xi 5-25x 56mm tactical riflescope to provide precision through its one-piece, oversized 34mm tube that increases strength and reliability.
I love the low profile turrets – easy to adjust but won’t snag on gear. The illumination is daylight bright when you need it.
You’ll spend close to $2000, but you’re getting a premium German-made optic ready for any conditions.
Tract TORIC 4-20×50
Tract may not be a household name yet, but they’re putting out some seriously impressive glass. The TORIC 4-20×50 offers incredible clarity that rivals scopes costing far more.
- Ultra High Definition optical system utilizing an extra low dispersion (ED) lens to eliminate color fringing as well as highly prized SCHOTT HT (High Transmission) glass to provide superior light transmission values even in low light shooting conditions.
The T-Plex reticle is clean and functional. Turrets have a great tactile feel and track true. It’s also surprisingly lightweight for a long range scope.
At around $1000, it offers excellent value. Don’t sleep on Tract – they’re making waves in the optics world.
Sig Sauer TANGO6 5-30×56
Sig has been killing it with their optics lately. The TANGO6 offers premium features at a reasonable price point. The HellFire illuminated reticle is one of my favorites for low light conditions.
- TANGO6 SCOPE – Designed for today’s common rifles and bolt action platforms, the TANGO6 5-30×56 mm riflescope is the ideal solution for precision shooting, tactical engagements, and long-range hunting; Incorporating FFP illuminated DEV-L MRAD reticle the TANGO6 is built for versatility
LevelPlex digital anti-cant system is great for long range accuracy. Lockdown Zero System turrets are precise and repeatable.
For about $1500, you’re getting a feature-packed scope ready to unlock the full potential of your 6.5 Creedmoor.
Choosing the Right Scope for Your Needs
While all of these scopes are excellent choices for the 6.5 Creedmoor, selecting the right one comes down to your specific needs and budget. Here are a few key factors to consider:
Magnification Range: For most 6.5 Creedmoor applications, a low end of 4-6x and high end of 20-30x is ideal. This gives you versatility for closer shots while still allowing you to reach out to 1000 yards and beyond.
Reticle Type: First focal plane (FFP) reticles are generally preferred for long range shooting as the holdovers remain true at all magnifications. Consider illuminated reticles if you frequently hunt in low light.
Turret System: Look for precise, repeatable turrets with a zero stop feature for making elevation and windage adjustments.
Glass Quality: This can make or break your long range shooting experience. Better glass provides better clarity, light transmission, and low-light performance.
Durability: Your scope needs to withstand recoil and harsh field conditions. Look for robust construction and good warranties.
Budget: While it’s tempting to go for the priciest option, there are excellent scopes at various price points. Determine your budget and find the best performing scope within that range.
My Personal Experience
I’ve been shooting the 6.5 Creedmoor since it first hit the market, and I’ve gone through my fair share of scopes trying to find the perfect match. Currently, I run the Vortex Viper PST Gen II on my go-to hunting rifle and the Leupold Mark 5HD on my long range precision build.
Last fall, I was able to take a beautiful mule deer buck at 875 yards using my 6.5 Creedmoor topped with the Viper PST Gen II. The clarity of the glass allowed me to clearly identify the buck and make ethical shot placement, even in the fading evening light. The precise turret adjustments let me dial in my dope with confidence.
For those newer to long range shooting, I usually recommend starting with something like the Athlon Ares ETR. It offers a ton of performance for the price and will let you really explore the capabilities of the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge without breaking the bank.
Whichever scope you choose, pairing it with quality rings or a solid one-piece mount is crucial. I’ve had great luck with Seekins Precision rings and the Spuhr ISMS mount system.
Remember, the best scope is the one that meets your specific needs and that you’re comfortable using. Get out to the range, practice with your setup, and you’ll be ringing steel at 1000 yards with your 6.5 Creedmoor in no time!