As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours in the field testing various scopes for the 6.5 Grendel. This versatile cartridge has gained immense popularity among hunters and long-range shooters, and for good reason. Its excellent ballistics and low recoil make it a joy to shoot, but to truly unlock its potential, you need a scope that’s up to the task. In this article, I’ll share my top 10 picks for the best scopes for 6.5 Grendel in 2024, based on my personal experiences and extensive research.
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II has consistently impressed me with its versatility and performance. I remember the first time I took this scope out for a long-range session with my 6.5 Grendel. The clarity of the glass blew me away, even in low-light conditions. The first focal plane reticle is a game-changer for long-range shooting, allowing for accurate holdovers at any magnification. View price
With a magnification range of 5-25x and a 50mm objective lens, this scope offers incredible flexibility for both close-range and long-distance shooting. The EBR-7C MRAD reticle provides precise aiming points and range estimation capabilities. What really sets this scope apart is its robust construction. I’ve accidentally banged it against tree branches and rocks during hunts, and it’s held up beautifully, maintaining zero without issue.
The illuminated reticle is another feature I’ve come to appreciate, especially during those crucial dawn and dusk hunting hours. The glass quality is exceptional, with fully multi-coated lenses that provide excellent light transmission and color fidelity. Whether you’re hunting in the dense woods or shooting targets at 1000 yards, the Viper PST Gen II has you covered.
Leupold VX-5HD 3-15×44 CDS-ZL2
Leupold has long been a trusted name in the optics world, and the VX-5HD lives up to that reputation. This scope has accompanied me on several successful hunts, and its light transmission is second to none. The Twilight Max HD Light Management System is a standout feature, providing an extra 20 minutes of shooting light during those crucial dawn and dusk hours. I’ve made shots in lighting conditions that I wouldn’t have dreamed possible with lesser scopes.
- Model #178027 – VX-5HD 3-15×44 Riflescope with an HTMR Reticle, CDS-ZL2 and a Matte finish
- The CDS-ZL2 (ZeroLock 2) provides two revolutions 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 3-15x magnification range is perfect for the versatile 6.5 Grendel, allowing for both close-range shots in thick brush and longer shots across open fields. The 44mm objective lens strikes a nice balance between light gathering capability and keeping the scope’s weight down. I particularly appreciate the CDS-ZL2 elevation dial, which allows for quick and easy elevation adjustments for long-range shots.
One hunt that really stands out in my memory was a whitetail hunt in northern Michigan. As the sun was setting, I spotted a nice buck at about 300 yards. With any other scope, I might have had to pass on the shot due to the fading light. But with the VX-5HD, I was able to clearly see the deer and make a clean, ethical shot. The scope’s durability is also worth mentioning – it’s built like a tank and has survived more than a few accidental drops without losing zero.
Nightforce ATACR 4-16×50 F1
If you’re looking for the cream of the crop, the Nightforce ATACR is it. Yes, it comes with a hefty price tag, but the quality is unmatched. I’ve used this scope in competition shooting, and its precision is simply astounding. The first focal plane reticle, combined with the 4-16x magnification range and 50mm objective lens, makes this scope incredibly versatile. View price
The ATACR’s build quality is tank-like, and the glass clarity is out of this world. The ZeroStop feature is a godsend for quickly returning to your zero after dialing for long shots. I’ve found this particularly useful in PRS competitions, where you’re often engaging targets at varying distances.
One feature that really sets the ATACR apart is its extreme temperature tolerance. I’ve used this scope in both scorching desert conditions and freezing mountain environments, and it’s performed flawlessly in both. The ED glass provides exceptional color fidelity and contrast, making target identification a breeze even in challenging light conditions.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14x44mm FFP
For those on a tighter budget, the Primary Arms SLx offers incredible performance at a fraction of the cost of some high-end scopes. I’ve recommended this scope to many friends getting into long-range shooting, and they’ve all been impressed. The 4-14x magnification range is perfect for the 6.5 Grendel, providing enough zoom for long-range shots while still being usable at closer ranges. View price
The standout feature of this scope is the ACSS HUD DMR 308 reticle. This reticle is a bit busy at first glance, but once you get used to it, it’s an incredibly powerful tool. It provides quick ranging and holdover points, which can be a real advantage in hunting situations where you don’t have time to dial in your elevation.
I remember using this scope on a prairie dog hunt in South Dakota. The ability to quickly range targets and make accurate shots at varying distances really shined in that fast-paced environment. The first focal plane reticle means that the ranging and holdover features work at any magnification, adding to the scope’s versatility.
The glass quality is impressive for the price point, with good light transmission and clarity. While it may not quite match the ultra-high-end scopes in terms of edge-to-edge clarity, it’s more than capable for most hunting and target shooting scenarios.
Athlon Optics Ares BTR Gen2 4.5-27×50
Athlon has been making waves in the optics world with their high-quality, affordable scopes. The Ares BTR Gen2 is a perfect example of why. I’ve used this scope for both hunting and target shooting, and it’s never let me down. The wide 4.5-27x magnification range makes this scope incredibly versatile, suitable for everything from close-range brush hunting to long-range target shooting.
- 0. 25 MOA Click Value, 100 MOA Total Elevation Adjustment, 25 Yard to Infinity Parallax Adjustment, 6 Illumination Settings.
- HD Glass gives you better light transmission, brighter, and sharper image. The illuminated reticle provides greater visibility during dusk and dawn and other low ambient light environment.
The HD glass provides excellent clarity and color fidelity, even in low light conditions. I’ve been particularly impressed with the scope’s performance during twilight hours, where lesser scopes often struggle. The first focal plane APRS MIL reticle is clean and uncluttered, providing precise aiming points without obscuring the target.
One feature I really appreciate is the zero stop on the elevation turret. This allows you to quickly return to your zero after dialing for long shots, which can be a real time-saver in the field. The turrets provide positive clicks and track reliably, which is crucial for long-range accuracy.
I’ve taken this scope out in some pretty nasty weather, including heavy rain and freezing conditions, and it’s held up admirably. The nitrogen purging and O-ring seals keep moisture out effectively, preventing any internal fogging.
Vortex Optics Strike Eagle 5-25×56
Another fantastic offering from Vortex, the Strike Eagle provides high-end features at a mid-range price point. I’ve found this scope to be particularly well-suited for hunters who occasionally dabble in long-range target shooting. The 5-25x magnification range covers just about any shooting scenario you might encounter with a 6.5 Grendel.
- The Strike Eagle 5-25×56 First Focal Plane (MOA) scope provides the features needed to improve your long distance performance.
- XD Optical System delivers impressive resolution, edge-to-edge sharpness and greatly reduces chromatic abberation. Anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces provide superior light transmission for exceptional clarity and low-light performance.
The large 56mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, making this scope a great choice for low-light hunting situations. I’ve used this scope on several dusk hunts, and the image brightness and clarity have always impressed me. The EBR-7C MOA reticle provides a clean sight picture with useful holdover and windage points.
One feature that stands out is the RevStop Zero System. This allows you to set a hard stop at your zero, making it easy to return to your baseline zero quickly. I’ve found this particularly useful when switching between different ranges or ammunition loads.
The glass quality is excellent for the price point, with good clarity and contrast. While it may not quite match the ultra-high-end scopes in terms of edge-to-edge clarity, it’s more than capable for most hunting and target shooting scenarios. The scope is also built to withstand tough conditions, with aircraft-grade aluminum construction and O-ring seals to keep out moisture and dust.
Burris XTR II 4-20×50
The Burris XTR II is a scope that often flies under the radar, but it shouldn’t. I’ve been consistently impressed with its performance, especially given its price point. The 4-20x magnification range is perfect for the 6.5 Grendel, providing enough zoom for long-range shots while still being usable at closer ranges.
- Sport type: Hunting
- 34 mm body tube
- Elevation Adjustment total capability: 90 MOA; windage Adjustment: 55 MOA; Battery: CR2032
- Package Weight : 1.383 kilograms
The first focal plane SCR MIL reticle is clean and intuitive, providing useful holdover and windage points without cluttering the sight picture. I particularly appreciate the fine crosshairs, which allow for precise aiming at long distances. The illuminated reticle is a nice touch, especially useful in low light conditions or against dark targets.
The zero click stop feature on the adjustment knobs is particularly useful for quickly returning to your zero after making elevation adjustments for long shots. The knobs provide positive clicks and track reliably, which is crucial for long-range accuracy.
I’ve taken this scope out in some pretty nasty weather, including heavy rain and freezing conditions, and it’s held up admirably. The nitrogen purging and O-ring seals keep moisture out effectively, preventing any internal fogging. The durability of this scope is impressive – I’ve accidentally banged it against tree branches and rocks during hunts, and it’s maintained zero without issue.
Trijicon AccuPower 4-16×50
Trijicon is best known for their ACOG sights, but their AccuPower line of scopes is equally impressive. I’ve found the 4-16×50 model to be particularly well-suited for the 6.5 Grendel. The 4-16x magnification range covers most shooting scenarios you’re likely to encounter with this cartridge.
The standout feature of this scope is the LED-illuminated reticle. Unlike some illuminated reticles that can be overpowering, Trijicon has nailed the balance here. The illumination is visible in bright daylight but won’t bloom or distract in low light conditions. This has been particularly useful for me during dawn and dusk hunts.
The glass quality is excellent, providing clear and bright images even in challenging light conditions. The 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, making this a great choice for low light shooting. The second focal plane MOA reticle is clean and uncluttered, providing useful reference points without obscuring the target.
One thing I really appreciate about this scope is its rugged construction. Built from aircraft-grade aluminum, it’s designed to withstand serious abuse. I’ve used this scope in some pretty harsh conditions, from dusty deserts to humid rainforests, and it’s never let me down.
SWFA SS 10×42 Tactical
Sometimes, simplicity is key. The SWFA SS 10×42 is a fixed-power scope that offers incredible clarity and reliability. While it may not be as versatile as some variable-power scopes, its simplicity makes it a favorite among many serious shooters.
Don’t let the fixed magnification fool you – this scope is incredibly capable. The lack of moving parts in the magnification system results in exceptional reliability and consistency. The 10x magnification is a good all-around choice for the 6.5 Grendel, providing enough zoom for long-range shots while still being usable at closer ranges.
The Mil-Quad reticle is clean and intuitive, providing useful holdover and windage points without cluttering the sight picture. The side focus parallax adjustment allows for fine-tuning at various distances, which is crucial for precision shooting.
What really sets this scope apart is its exceptional tracking. The turrets provide positive clicks and track perfectly, which is crucial for long-range accuracy. I’ve used this scope in several long-range shooting competitions, and its consistency has always impressed me.
The build quality of this scope is outstanding. It’s built like a tank and can withstand serious abuse. I’ve seen these scopes survive drops that would have destroyed lesser optics. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, ultra-reliable scope for your 6.5 Grendel, the SWFA SS 10×42 is hard to beat.
Meopta Optika6 3-18×50 RD
Last but certainly not least, we have the Meopta Optika6. Meopta may not be as well-known as some other brands, but their quality is top-notch. I’ve been particularly impressed with the low-light performance of this scope.
- TRUE HUNTING RIFLESCOPE – The 3-18×50 Optika6 scopes feature capped windage and elevation turrets to avoid unwanted adjustments when moving fast through heavy cover
- MEOBRIGHT- A proprietary ion-assisted lens multi-coating for the riflescopes developed by Meopta, eliminate glare and reflections and delivers an industry leading 99.7% light transmission per lens surface
The 3-18x magnification range is perfect for the versatile 6.5 Grendel, allowing for both close-range shots in thick brush and longer shots across open fields. The 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, making this scope a great choice for low-light hunting situations.
What really sets this scope apart is its DichroTech reticle coating. This unique feature enhances reticle contrast against any background, making it easier to see your aiming point in any lighting condition. I’ve found this particularly useful when shooting against varied backgrounds, from dark forest to bright sky.
The MeoBright lens coating is another standout feature. It provides exceptional light transmission, resulting in bright, clear images even in challenging light conditions. I’ve used this scope for dawn and dusk hunts, and its low-light performance has consistently impressed me.
The build quality of the Optika6 is excellent. It’s built to withstand tough conditions, with a durable aluminum body and reliable sealing to keep out moisture and dust. The turrets provide positive clicks and track reliably, which is crucial for long-range accuracy.
One hunt that really stands out in my memory was a late-season elk hunt in Colorado. As the sun was setting behind the mountains, I spotted a bull at about 400 yards. With the Optika6, I was able to clearly see the elk and make a clean, ethical shot in light conditions that would have been challenging with many other scopes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right scope for your 6.5 Grendel can make a world of difference in your shooting experience. Whether you’re a hunter, a competitive shooter, or just enjoy ringing steel at long distances, there’s a scope on this list that will suit your needs.
Remember, the best scope for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider factors like your typical shooting distances, lighting conditions, and whether you prioritize versatility or specialized performance. Think about the environments you’ll be shooting in – a scope that’s perfect for open prairie hunting might not be ideal for dense forest environments.
It’s also worth considering the weight of the scope. The 6.5 Grendel is often used in lightweight AR-15 builds, and a heavy scope can upset the balance of these rifles. On the other hand, if you’re primarily shooting from a bench or prone position, the added weight of a larger scope might not be an issue.
Durability is another crucial factor, especially if you’re hard on your equipment. All the scopes on this list are built to withstand tough conditions, but some are more rugged than others. If you’re frequently hunting in harsh environments or participating in run-and-gun style competitions, you might want to lean towards the more robustly built options.
Don’t forget about warranty and customer service. Companies like Vortex and Leupold are known for their excellent warranty policies and customer support. This can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong with your scope in the field.
Whichever scope you choose, make sure to spend time practicing with it. Even the best optic in the world won’t make you a better shooter overnight – that comes with time behind the trigger. Learn your holdovers, practice ranging targets, and get comfortable with making quick adjustments.
Remember, the 6.5 Grendel is a versatile cartridge capable of excellent accuracy at long ranges. A good scope will help you squeeze every bit of performance out of this round. Whether you’re taking ethical shots on game animals or trying to punch tiny groups at the range, the right scope can make all the difference.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to invest in quality. A good scope can last a lifetime if properly cared for, and can be transferred between rifles as your collection grows. While some of the options on this list might seem expensive, they’re investments in your shooting future.
With one of these top-notch scopes mounted on your 6.5 Grendel, you’ll have the tools you need to push your shooting to the next level. So get out there, dial in your zero, and enjoy the incredible performance of your 6.5 Grendel. Happy hunting, and may your shots always find their mark!