As an avid muzzleloader hunter, I know firsthand how crucial it is to have the right optics to maximize accuracy and range. While muzzleloaders may be considered “primitive” weapons, pairing them with a quality scope can truly elevate your hunting game. After extensive field testing and research, I’ve put together this updated guide to the top muzzleloader scopes for 2024. Whether you’re looking for the best overall performance, long-range precision, or budget-friendly options, I’ve got you covered.
Why Use a Scope on a Muzzleloader?
Before we dive into the top picks, let’s quickly touch on why scopes are so beneficial for muzzleloaders:
- Improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges
- Better target acquisition and identification
- Increased effective hunting range
- Compensates for muzzleloader ballistics
- Enhances low-light performance
While purists may prefer open sights, I’ve found that a good scope makes me a much more effective and ethical hunter. The right optic allows me to confidently take shots out to 200 yards or beyond with my trusty .50 cal smoke pole.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing a muzzleloader scope, keep these important factors in mind:
Magnification: For most hunting situations, 3-9x or 2-7x magnification is ideal. You want enough power for longer shots without sacrificing field of view.
Objective Lens: A 40-50mm objective provides a good balance of light transmission and compact size.
Reticle: BDC (bullet drop compensating) reticles calibrated for muzzleloader ballistics are very useful.
Eye Relief: Longer eye relief (3.5″+ ) protects against heavy recoil.
Durability: Muzzleloaders produce serious recoil, so choose a scope built to handle it.
Clarity & Light Transmission: Quality glass is key for low-light hunting scenarios.
Now, let’s get to the top picks for 2024:
Vortex Diamondback 1.75-5×32 – Best Overall
The Vortex Diamondback continues to be my top overall pick for muzzleloader hunters. It offers an ideal magnification range, outstanding glass quality, and rock-solid durability – all at a reasonable price point.
Key Features:
- 1.75-5x magnification
- 32mm objective lens
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Waterproof/fogproof
- Shockproof aircraft-grade aluminum
The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is calibrated nicely for typical muzzleloader trajectories. I’ve found it to be deadly accurate out to 200 yards when zeroed properly. The glass clarity and light transmission are excellent, allowing me to squeeze out every minute of legal shooting light.
At under $300, it’s a tremendous value that will serve you well for years of seasons to come. The lifetime warranty from Vortex is icing on the cake.
Leupold VX-Freedom UltimateSlam 3-9×40 – Best Premium Option
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, it’s hard to beat the Leupold VX-Freedom UltimateSlam. Leupold designed this scope specifically for muzzleloaders and slug guns.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective
- UltimateSlam reticle
- Twilight Light Management System
- Waterproof/fogproof
- Made in USA
The UltimateSlam reticle is calibrated for popular muzzleloader and slug loads. It takes the guesswork out of holdovers. The glass quality is superb, with exceptional clarity and light transmission for those crucial dawn and dusk hunts.
While pricier than some options, the “buy once, cry once” philosophy applies here. This is an heirloom-quality optic that will likely outlast your muzzleloader.
Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 – Best Budget Option
For hunters on a tighter budget, the Vortex Crossfire II delivers impressive performance at a wallet-friendly price point.
Key Features:
- 2-7x magnification
- 32mm objective
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Long eye relief (3.9 inches)
I’ve recommended this scope to several hunting buddies looking for an affordable but quality optic. The 2-7x magnification range is perfect for most muzzleloader hunting scenarios. The BDC reticle helps with shot placement at varying distances.
While it may lack some of the premium features of pricier scopes, the Crossfire II gets the job done without breaking the bank. It’s a great entry-level option.
Burris Fullfield E1 3-9×40 – Best Field of View
The Burris Fullfield E1 offers an exceptionally wide field of view, which I’ve found very helpful when hunting in thick cover or tracking moving game.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective
- Ballistic Plex E1 reticle
- Hi-Lume multi-coated lenses
- 33-13 ft field of view at 100 yds
The Ballistic Plex E1 reticle has cascading dots for holdovers with popular muzzleloader loads. Combined with the generous field of view, it’s great for quick target acquisition and shot placement.
Burris’s quality control and warranty are excellent. This scope feels like it should cost quite a bit more than it does.
Sig Sauer SIERRA3BDX 3.5-10×42 – Best “Smart Scope”
For the tech-savvy hunter, Sig’s SIERRA3BDX brings muzzleloader scopes into the 21st century. It pairs with Sig’s KILO rangefinding binoculars and smartphone app for an integrated ballistics solution.
Key Features:
- 3.5-10x magnification
- 42mm objective
- Digital BDX reticle
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Built-in Applied Ballistics Ultralight
While there’s certainly a learning curve, this system takes the guesswork out of long-range shots. The scope receives distance and environmental data from the rangefinder, then illuminates the exact aim point in the reticle.
It’s not for everyone, but if you love diving deep into ballistics, this scope is a game-changer for stretching your effective range.
Bushnell Banner 3-9×40 – Best Low Light Performance
Known for their twilight performance, Bushnell’s DDB (Dusk & Dawn Brightness) multi-coated lenses really shine in the Banner scope.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective
- Multi-X reticle
- DDB lens coatings
- Waterproof/fogproof
I’ve been consistently impressed by how much usable light this scope gathers, even in heavy overcast or deep timber. For hunters who like to stay out until the last legal minute, the Banner is worth a hard look.
The simple Multi-X reticle may lack advanced features, but it’s clean and uncluttered for rapid target acquisition.
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 – Best Value
While Nikon has largely exited the riflescope market, the Buckmasters II remains available and is an outstanding value.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective
- BDC reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Generous eye relief (3.6 inches)
Nikon’s optical quality punches above its weight class here. The BDC reticle works well with typical muzzleloader trajectories. It’s a simple, reliable scope that just flat-out gets the job done.
Given Nikon’s exit from the scope market, these can often be found at steep discounts. If you come across a good deal, don’t hesitate to snag one.
Leupold VX-3HD 3.5-10×40 – Best Hunting Features
Another premium option, the VX-3HD is packed with hunter-friendly features that make it a joy to use in the field.
Key Features:
- 3.5-10x magnification
- 40mm objective
- Custom Dial System (CDS) Zero Lock dials
- Twilight Max HD light management
- Guard-ion lens coating
The CDS dial system allows you to quickly adjust for different ranges or loads without counting clicks. The light transmission is top-notch for those crucial low-light moments.
I’m a big fan of the Guard-ion coating, which sheds water, dirt, and fingerprints like nothing else I’ve used. It’s a real benefit in nasty weather.
Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40 – Best All-Around Value
If the 1.75-5x Diamondback is a bit too low-powered for your taste, its 3-9×40 big brother is another outstanding option that provides more reach.
Key Features:
- 3-9x magnification
- 40mm objective
- Dead-Hold BDC reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Argon purged for fogproofing
This scope hits a real sweet spot of performance, durability, and value. The glass quality and light transmission exceed expectations at this price point.
I’ve used this scope extensively on both muzzleloaders and centerfire rifles. It’s never let me down, even in harsh conditions and heavy recoil.
Primary Arms SLx 1-6×24 – Best for Close Range
While most muzzleloader hunting happens at moderate ranges, the ability to shoot with both eyes open at 1x magnification is a real asset in tight quarters or for moving game.
Key Features:
- 1-6x magnification
- 24mm objective
- ACSS reticle
- 11 illumination settings
- Lifetime warranty
The ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) reticle takes some getting used to but is very effective once mastered. At 1x, it functions similarly to a red dot for lightning-fast target acquisition.
This is an excellent choice for hunters who primarily take closer shots but still want magnification available when needed.
Final Thoughts
The world of muzzleloader scopes has come a long way in recent years. Modern optics allow us to wring maximum performance out of our smoke poles while still honoring the traditions of primitive weapons seasons.
When choosing a scope, consider your typical hunting scenarios, budget, and personal preferences. Any of the options on this list will serve you well – it comes down to finding the right fit for your needs.
Don’t be afraid to visit your local gun shop and look through some different scopes before making a decision. Optical quality and reticle preference can be quite subjective.
Here’s to many successful seasons ahead! May your powder stay dry, and your scope zero true.