As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various scopes over the years. When it comes to the .224 Valkyrie, finding the right scope can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating outing. The .224 Valkyrie cartridge has gained quite a following among long-range shooters and varmint hunters since its introduction in 2017, and for good reason. Its flat trajectory and ability to maintain supersonic velocities at extended ranges make it a versatile option for those looking to push their shooting skills to the limit.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my top 10 picks for the best scopes to pair with your .224 Valkyrie rifle in 2024. I’ve personally tested many of these optics in the field, and I’ve done extensive research to ensure I’m bringing you the most up-to-date information. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or just getting started with long-range shooting, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in!
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 3-15×44 SFP Riflescope
When it comes to versatility and value, it’s hard to beat the Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II. I’ve used this scope on multiple hunts, and it never fails to impress. The 3-15x magnification range is perfect for the .224 Valkyrie, allowing you to engage targets from close range out to 1000 yards and beyond.
Key Features:
– EBR-2C MOA reticle
– Illuminated reticle with 10 intensity levels
– Precision-glide erector system for smooth magnification changes
– XR fully multi-coated lenses for exceptional light transmission
What I love about this scope is its clarity and brightness, even in low-light conditions. The tactile turrets make adjustments a breeze, and the zero-stop feature ensures you can always return to your original zero quickly. At around $900, it’s not the cheapest option on the list, but the quality and features make it well worth the investment.
Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
For those looking for a first focal plane (FFP) option, the Primary Arms SLX is a solid choice. I’ve found the ACSS Apollo 6.5CM/.224V reticle to be particularly useful for the .224 Valkyrie, as it’s specifically designed for this cartridge.
Key Features:
– First focal plane reticle
– ACSS Apollo 6.5CM/.224V reticle
– 6 brightness settings
– Lifetime warranty
The clarity of the glass is impressive for the price point, and the robust construction means it can handle the recoil of larger calibers if you decide to switch things up. One thing to note is that the eye relief can be a bit unforgiving at higher magnifications, so proper mounting is crucial.
Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm Rifle Scope
Leupold has long been a trusted name in the optics world, and the VX-3i lives up to that reputation. I’ve used this scope on a prairie dog hunt with my .224 Valkyrie, and the results were outstanding.
Key Features:
– Twilight Max Light Management System
– Custom Dial System (CDS) for easy elevation adjustments
– Duplex reticle
– Lightweight design at just 13.1 ounces
The optical clarity of the VX-3i is exceptional, and the Twilight Max system really shines during those crucial dawn and dusk hunting periods. The simple duplex reticle might not be for everyone, but for those who prefer a clean, uncluttered sight picture, it’s hard to beat.
Nightforce NX8 4-32x50mm F1-MOA Riflescope
If you’re serious about long-range shooting and have a budget to match, the Nightforce NX8 is worth considering. While I haven’t personally owned this scope, I’ve had the chance to use one at a long-range shooting clinic, and it’s truly impressive.
Key Features:
– Massive 4-32x magnification range
– ZeroStop elevation adjustment
– MOAR reticle
– Compact and lightweight for its class
The optical quality is top-notch, as you’d expect from Nightforce. The 32x maximum magnification allows you to really reach out there with the .224 Valkyrie. However, at around $2,700, it’s definitely an investment.
Vortex Optics Diamondback 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
For those on a tighter budget, the Vortex Diamondback offers excellent performance without breaking the bank. I’ve recommended this scope to several friends just getting into long-range shooting, and they’ve all been pleased with the results.
Key Features:
– Dead-Hold BDC reticle
– Fully multi-coated lenses
– Argon purged for fogproof performance
– Lifetime warranty
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end scopes, the Diamondback delivers where it counts. The glass is clear, the adjustments are positive, and the build quality is solid. For under $300, it’s hard to go wrong with this option.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
Athlon has been making waves in the optics world with their combination of quality and affordability. The Argos BTR is a great example of this, offering features typically found on much more expensive scopes.
Key Features:
– First focal plane APMR MIL reticle
– Illuminated reticle
– XPL coating for lens protection
– Precision zero stop system
I’ve used this scope on a friend’s .224 Valkyrie build, and I was impressed with its performance, especially considering the price point. The FFP reticle is a nice touch for those who like to use holdovers at various magnifications.
Bushnell AR Optics 4.5-18x40mm Rifle Scope
Bushnell has long been known for offering good value, and their AR Optics line is no exception. This scope is designed with the AR platform in mind, making it a natural fit for many .224 Valkyrie rifles.
Key Features:
– Drop Zone-224 BDC reticle
– Side focus parallax adjustment
– Fully multi-coated optics
– Fast-focus eyepiece
The Drop Zone-224 reticle is specifically calibrated for the .224 Valkyrie, which can be a real time-saver when setting up your dope. I’ve found the glass quality to be good for the price, though not quite on par with some of the higher-end options on this list.
ZEISS Conquest V4 4-16x44mm Riflescope
ZEISS is renowned for their optical quality, and the Conquest V4 brings that quality to a more accessible price point. While I haven’t personally used this scope with a .224 Valkyrie, I’ve been impressed with its performance on other rifles.
Key Features:
– ZBR-2 reticle
– ZEISS T* lens coatings
– External locking windage turret
– 90% light transmission
The optical clarity of ZEISS scopes is always impressive, and the Conquest V4 is no exception. The ZBR-2 reticle provides useful holdover points without cluttering the sight picture. At around $1,000, it’s a significant investment, but the quality is undeniable.
Monstrum G3 6-24x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
For those on a tight budget who still want features like a first focal plane reticle and illumination, the Monstrum G3 is worth considering. While it may not have the brand recognition of some other options, it offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Key Features:
– First focal plane MOA reticle
– Touch-button illuminated reticle
– Aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum construction
– Includes flip-up lens covers and sunshade
I was initially skeptical of this scope given its low price point, but after testing one out, I was pleasantly surprised. While the optical quality isn’t on par with higher-end scopes, it’s more than adequate for most shooters, especially those just getting into long-range shooting.
Trijicon AccuPoint 4-16x50mm Riflescope
Rounding out our list is the Trijicon AccuPoint. Known for their rugged construction and innovative illumination systems, Trijicon scopes are a favorite among serious hunters and competitive shooters.
Key Features:
– Fiber optic and tritium illuminated reticle
– Second focal plane MOA crosshair reticle
– Multi-coated lenses
– No batteries required for illumination
I’ve used this scope on several hunts, and the battery-free illumination system is a game-changer, especially for those long days in the field. The optical quality is excellent, and the build quality is top-notch. It’s on the pricier side, but for those who demand the best, it’s worth considering.
Choosing the Right Scope for Your Needs
When selecting a scope for your .224 Valkyrie, there are several factors to consider:
Magnification Range: For the .224 Valkyrie’s long-range capabilities, a variable power scope with a maximum magnification of at least 14x is ideal. However, don’t neglect the low end – a 3-4x minimum magnification will serve you well for closer shots.
Reticle Type: BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticles can be useful for the .224 Valkyrie, especially those calibrated specifically for the cartridge. However, MOA or MRAD reticles offer more versatility if you plan to use the scope on multiple rifles.
Focal Plane: First focal plane (FFP) reticles maintain their subtensions at all magnifications, which can be useful for ranging and holdovers. However, they tend to be more expensive and can appear very fine at low magnifications.
Optical Quality: Look for fully multi-coated lenses and good light transmission. This is especially important for low-light hunting situations.
Durability: Ensure the scope is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. Nitrogen or argon purging helps prevent internal fogging.
Adjustment Range: The .224 Valkyrie’s long-range potential means you’ll want a scope with plenty of elevation adjustment. Look for at least 60 MOA of total adjustment.
Budget: While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, remember that a scope is only as good as the shooter behind it. Choose the best scope you can afford, but don’t neglect practice and training.
Conclusion
The .224 Valkyrie is a capable cartridge that deserves a quality optic to match. Whether you’re punching paper at 1000 yards or taking on prairie dogs at more modest ranges, there’s a scope on this list to suit your needs and budget.
Remember, the best scope for you is the one that meets your specific requirements and that you’re comfortable using. Don’t be afraid to visit a local shop and get hands-on with some of these options before making your decision.
Happy hunting, and may your shots fly true!