With different varieties of firearms and respective ranging optics like sights, scopes, and clip-on, scout rifles and scopes are growing popular as much as the AR platforms in all hunting and shooting disciplines. In many ways, the scout rifles are the better choice for the all-around multi-users.
The combination of the best riflescope with a powerful weapon like a scout rifle will help to get better performance.
Choosing the best scope for scout rifle is the only hard thing you have to do to get the most out of your scout rifle. You have to choose a scope with long eye relief, a low-power variable optic, and durable construction.
Anyhow, there are so many scopes available in the market with all these features in different ways, so finding the best scope for a scout rifle is a challenging one. And that’s what brings you here, we help you better understand what the scout rifle is how it will be used, and the best scout scopes.
Moreover, we explain some important factors that you should look at in the best scope for scout rifles.
Let’s get started…
10 BEST SCOPES FOR SCOUT RIFLE
| Product | Optic | Reticle | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2-7×32 | V-Plex | Check Price | |
 | 2-7×32 | Ballistic Plex | Check Price | |
 | 3-9×32 | Mil-dot | Check Price | |
 | 3-9×50 | Truplex | Check Price | |
 | 3-9×40 | Mil-dot | Check Price | |
 | 4×32 | Mil-dot | Check Price | |
 | 2-7×32 | Duplex | Check Price | |
 | 1.5-4×30 | Arrow | Check Price | |
 | 2.5×28 | RFP | Check Price | |
 | 3-9×40 | Mil-dot | Check Price |
What is Scout Rifle?
In the early 1980s, the concept of scout rifles has been promoted and popularized by Jeff Cooper. Scout rifles bear some similarities to other rifle prototypes that highlight two points:
- Comfortable transfer and effortless shifting to firing position
- Practical precision over firepower
Minute of Angle (MOA) Capability: Better at 200 meters
Scout rifles are a type of bolt action carbine firearms with the following criteria:
- Chambered in .308 WIN (or similar rifle cartridges)
- Overall length of less than one (1) meter
- 18 inches to 20 inches barrel
- The loaded weight of at least 6.6 pounds (3 kilograms) or less
- Designed with Ching Slings or CW slings
- Equipped with forward-mounted intermedial eye relief scope
- Embedded with emergency iron sights or ghost ring
Scout rifles are designed for hunting and survival purposes. This rifle can serve as your personal defense tool for civil disorganization and other similar disorders for worst-case scenarios.
Scout rifles are versatile and can be adapted to any functionality for as long as you have enough marksmanship skills and knowledge.
With its practical slings, you can easily change your position depending on the situation you might be in.
The scout scopes can be very accurate for your hunting circumstances. It can also be of great assistance for long-range target shooting that requires a high precision level.
The high-quality scout scopes can also be used as the best scopes for Ruger precision rifles.
As years pass by, different types and models of scopes have been created and manufactured in the market. The more it magnifies your vision while giving you a clearer view of the target despite the better distance?
Finding the appropriate scope for a scout rifle that suits your preferences may be a bit hard. With that said, this article will help you find the best scope for a scout rifle. Without further ado, let us proceed with the discussion.
10+ BEST SCOPES FOR SCOUT RIFLE in 2022 – Reviewed
1. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Scope
The vortex is one of the best brands for rifle scope. The Vortex Crossfire II rifle scope is the best scope for scout rifle at an affordable price. The best part of this scope is its advanced optics technology, in which you can clearly view the long distance target.
The magnification range of this scope is 2X to 7X so that it is the best choice for close to long range shooting. The 32 mm objective lens of this scope will help to transmit a maximum amount of light for the bright view of the image in the low light conditions.
| Objective Lens: | 32 mm | Magnification: | 2-7x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | V-Plex | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 9.45 in | Exit Pupil: | 4.57-16 mm |
| Weight: | 12 oz | Illumination: | None |
The V-Plex type reticle is designed in this vortex crossfire II rifle scope, that allows you to shoot accurately in any harsh conditions and this reticle is more helpful for the hunters. The reticle is placed in the second focal plane, so the size of the reticle will not change when you change the magnification range.
Due to the magnification range of this scope, it is an ideal choice to shoot 200-700 yards distance targets. The elevation and windage adjustment turrets are designed for the finger adjustable and you can easily zero-reset with the caps. These turrets make this scope easy to use.
The main body of this vortex crossfire II scout scope is designed as one piece by using the aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, which ensures great functionality even if you dropped this scope.
Moreover the nitrogen purging and the O-ring sealing ensures the waterproof and fogproof feature of this scope so that this scope will perform well in heavy rain or snow.
The total weight of this scope is 14.3 ounces, in which you can use either a ring or rail system to mount it with the rifle. Due to the easy to use and the low price of this scope, it is the best beginners scope.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Affordable Price
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Single Piece Tube Construction
Cons
- Images may blur in high magnification
2. Burris Ballistic Plex Hunting Riflescope
The Burris Ballistic Plex Riflescope is one of the best scopes for the scout rifles. This scope is specially designed for the shooters who are the fighting carbine and using the multi-purpose scout rifle.
The forward mounting design of this scope allows you to mount it in front of the ejection port that will extend the eye relief distance so that you can avoid injuries when shooting the targets.
| Objective Lens: | 32 mm | Magnification: | 2-7x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Ballistic Plex | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 9.2 - 12 in | Exit Pupil: | 4.6 - 13 mm |
| Weight: | 13 oz | Illumination: | None |
Moreover, the both eye open feature of this scope allows you to focus on the target with your both eyes open, with which you don’t need to strain your eye to shoot the targets. This both eye open feature also provides better situational awareness and fast target acquisition.
The aluminum material is used to construct this scope, it ensures the lightweight and high quality construction. Due to the compact design of this scout rifle scope, you can comfortably carry it with your rifle.
The nitrogen is filled in the body of the scope, it prevents the internal fogging so that you can get the clear view of the target in rain and snow.
The precision-ground lens of this scope is larger than other scopes, that allows the maximum light transmission for the better view.
The High-grade optics of this scope provides the great brightness and clarity of the image. The multi coated lens will reduce the glare, so you can lucidly view the targets under the bright sunlight.
The magnification range of this burris rifle scope is 2-7X, which helps to clearly shoot the long-range targets. The 32 mm objective lens will provide better situational awareness and also helps to get the maximum light transmission for the better view.
The eye relief distance of this scout scope is 9.2-12 inches. The Ballistic reticle of this scope will help to accurately shoot the targets in any kind of situation.
Pros
- Fully Multi-coated lens
- Best for close to long range
- Ultra-fast target acquisition
- Compact and Lightweight Design
Cons
- No lens cap included
3. Leapers UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
Just like UTG 3-9X40 AO True Hunter, this product is also able to withstand shock, water, and fog brought about by different weather conditions. It can adapt well to its surroundings and light conditions.
With its Emerald-coated lens and Adaptable Objective, Leapers UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope maximizes the transmission of light, which provides you with a clearer and more vivid picture of your surroundings and your hunting prey.
| Objective Lens: | 32 mm | Magnification: | 3-9x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Mil-Dot | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 3.2 - 4.2 in | Exit Pupil: | 10.6 - 3.6 mm |
| Weight: | 13.9 oz | Illumination: | Red/Green |
Leapers UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope also enables you to have an even larger scope of the viewing field, which is pretty convenient when you are locking down your target. It also supports you in providing extended eye relief while avoiding intolerable recoil and discomfort.
Leapers UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope has a built-in EZ TAP Illumination Enhancement (IE) System with dual-color modes of red and green. It also has 36 multicoloured modes that can adapt and accommodate the most light and weather conditions you may be in.
Do you want to use your previous brightness and color settings? You can effortlessly switch to your previous settings in just one click using its built-in One Click High Tech Illumination Memory. It is quite efficient, most especially if you are in the middle of a crucial hunting session.
Leapers UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope also boasts its click value of ¼ MOA to windage and elevation adjustments using its embedded Zero Locking and Resetting Turret Settings.
Read more: UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope Review
Pros
- Swat illumination
- TS platform
- Lockable turrets
- Included rings
Cons
- Limited life
4. Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope
Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope provides you with more premium features than other similar products. Its optic is fully coated, which offers higher contrast and brighter image.
With its built-in QTA Eye Piece, Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope can quickly obtain the target in place. You won’t have to miss your targets anymore and observe them more precisely than it ever was before.
| Objective Lens: | 50 mm | Magnification: | 3-9x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Truplex | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 3.75 in | Exit Pupil: | 16.6 - 5.6 mm |
| Weight: | 13.2 oz | Illumination: | None |
The lens of this scope is coated with Hydro Shield. This coating allows you to view the images more clearly and vividly through the lens, regardless of the weather situations you might be in.
Significantly, Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope can adjust your scout rifle’s aiming capabilities under any circumstances effortlessly with its built-in SureGrip Rubber while enhancing your marksmanship skills.
This 3x9x50 rifle scope is embedded with True Zero Windage and Adjustable Elevation System. The lock stays tightly in place despite the most arduous conditions.
Moreover, this product can also hold itself against water, fogging, and pressure from recoil, making it durable and long-lasting.
You can be sure that Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope is a good investment. Considering the QTA Eye Piece and True Zero System, this scope can very well be the best asset you may ever gain in the market.
Pros
- QTA eyepiece
- HD clarity optics
- Affordable scope
- Very easy to mount
Cons
- Not perform well in lighted conditions
5. Leapers UTG 3-9X40 AO True Hunter IE Scope
Are you looking for a scope that can withstand tougher conditions? Why not try Leapers UTG 3-9X40 AO True Hunter IE Scope? With its built-in strength sealed with nitrogen, it is able to hold out against shock, water, and fogging under wet conditions.
Leapers UTG 3-9X40 AO True Hunter IE Scope is embedded with a distinct EZ TAP Illumination Enhancement System with a dual-colour mode of red, green and 36 multicoloured modes that can adapt and accommodate all light and weather conditions.
| Objective Lens: | 40 mm | Magnification: | 3-9x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Mil-dot | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 3.9 - 3.2 in | Exit Pupil: | 13 - 4.5 mm |
| Weight: | 21.1 oz | Illumination: | Red/Green |
What makes it different from other similar products is its built-in One Click High Tech Illumination Memory, which allows you to return your previous brightness and color settings. You don’t have to change your settings now and then, which might take time. The people who are looking for the best scope for scout rifle, they can choose this scope for them.
Leapers UTG 3-9X40 AO True Hunter IE Scope also boast its accurate ¼ MOA to windage and elevation adjustments per click due to its Zero Locking and Resetting Turret Features.
This scope’s lenses can achieve optimal transmission of light for better viewing and clarity. Additionally, its built-in TRE Mil-Dot Estimating Reticle can help you to improve your sharpshooting skills by optimizing your scout rifle’s aiming capabilities.
Pros
- Clear optics
- Zero lockable
- Caps are protect lens
- Resettable turrets
Cons
- High mount adjustment is tricky
6. AIM Sports 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope
AIM Sports 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope is a portable tactical scope that provides you with immensely fast acquisition of the target, which does not compromise your shooting capabilities when affixed on your scout rifle.
Aside from Scout Rifles, AIM Sports 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope can perfectly fit other rifles. It can support you very well during your target shooting or hunting activities.
| Objective Lens: | 32 mm | Magnification: | 4x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Mil-dot | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 3 in | Exit Pupil: | 8 mm |
| Weight: | 11 oz | Illumination: | None |
AIM Sports 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope is built with a multicoated lens fused in blue optics, which provides you with the stellar transmission of light. It can perfectly reduce the reflections internally while withstanding against scratches and other weather conditions. It can also hold itself against continuous heavy recoil due to its construction from 1-piece aluminum of aircraft level.
Providing 3 inches of Eye Relief, AIM Sports 4X32 Compact Rifle Scope can help you avoid eye strains while keeping you safe from heavy recoils.
Pros
- Inexpensive riflescope
- Easy to mount
- Compact and lightweight design
- Includes true range-finding reticle
Cons
- Optics are blurry
7. NcSTAR 2-7X32 Pistolero Rifle Scope
NcSTAR 2-7X32 Pistolero Rifle Scope is embedded with 1-inch aluminum rings in weaver style, making it easier for you to place on your firearms. Its lens is multicoated, which aids you to relieve or reduce any eye strain you may experience with other rifle scopes.
NcSTAR 2-7X32 Pistolero Rifle Scope boasts Long Eye Relief for an expanded mounting proficiency, which allows you to acquire your targets easily over a longer period of time without hurting your eyes much.
| Objective Lens: | 32 mm | Magnification: | 2-7x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Duplex | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 8.7 - 10.67 in | Exit Pupil: | 4.6 - 16.46 mm |
| Weight: | 9.6 oz | Illumination: | None |
NcSTAR 2-7X32 Pistolero Rifle Scope is a versatile tool that can enhance your scout rifle’s aiming capabilities while supporting you smoothly in shooting your prey during your hunting activities in the wild.
NcSTAR 2-7X32 Pistolero Rifle Scope can also support you for your recreational target shooting activities as well as for any close range circumstances that may arise.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Versatile construction
- Great magnification
- Clear optics for accurate shot
Cons
- The windage and elevation adjustment may stuck
8. AIM Sports Tri-Illumination CQB Scope
If you are looking for a scope that provides you with swift targeting and accurate precision during unexpected situations, this product may be the one for you.
AIM Sports Recon Series 1.5-4×30 Tri- Illumination CQB Scope is your perfect ally when you find yourself in immediate danger.
| Objective Lens: | 30 mm | Magnification: | 1.5-4x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Arrow | Tube Diameter: | 30 mm |
| Eye Relief: | 4 - 5 in | Exit Pupil: | 6 - 20 mm |
| Weight: | 24 oz | Illumination: | Red, Green, Blue |
This product gives you a wider scope of the viewing field, ideal for any close-range situations. Its adjustable reticle is able to adapt with any light environments while its green multicoated lens gives you superior experience when it comes to the transmission of light. It goes without saying that this scope does not hinder your viewing field.
Moreover, with its adjustable sunshade, it decreases the amount of light that goes through the lens, which gives you a clearer view of your target.
It can also resist tough conditions such as scratching, fogging, shock, and wet conditions.
Pros
- Easy to adjust
- Clear optics
- Lightweight Design
- Long eye relief
Cons
- Bit heavy
9. Leupold FX-II Scout 2.5x28mm Scope
The Leupold is one of the most reputed brands in the scope industry, the Leupold FX-II Scout Scope is one of the best products from them that is specially designed for scout rifles.
The magnification range of this scope is 2.5x, it is fixed power scope so that the magnification range will not change. Due to this magnification range, it is one of the best choices for medium range shooting.
| Objective Lens: | 28 mm | Magnification: | 2.5x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Duplex | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 9.3 in | Exit Pupil: | - |
| Weight: | 7.5 oz | Illumination: | None |
Due to the material used for the construction, it is consider as lightweight scope that will scatter the recoil energy for the unrivaled performance and durability so that you can also use this scope for .308 rifles.
The ultra-light construction ensures that this scope is an ideal choice of the lever action rifles and scout rifles. The Twilight Light Management system is featured in this scope that delivers a leading bright and clarity image by maintaining the light transmission.
The light management system of this scope will provide the brightness extra 20 minutes in the dark environment. The multi-coated lens of this scope will reduce the glare for the edge to edge image quality.
The most common type Duplex reticle is used in this scope, which is suitable for bother hunting and tactical shooting. The eye relief distance of this scope is 9.3 inches that helps to view the target accurately from the long distances. This scope is 100% fog-proof and waterproof, so it can perform well in any environmental condition.
Pros
- 1-inch main tube
- Black Matte Finish
- Fixed Power Scout Scope
- Simple but robust design
Cons
- A bit expensive
10. Visionking 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
Visionking 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is a 1-piece main tube which is heavy-duty scope finished with jet-black matte. It is filled with nitrogen, which makes it resistant to shock, fogging, and water.
The lens is also multicoated thus making sure that only optimal transmission of light can pass through, giving you a sharper and more vivid viewing quality while observing your surroundings. It allows you to see the movements of your target more precisely.
With that said, Visionking 3-9×40 Rifle Scope can enhance the aiming ability of your scout rifle while allowing you to see your locked-in target during your hunting session clearly.
| Objective Lens: | 40 mm | Magnification: | 3-9x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Mil-dot | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 4.56-3.58 in | Exit Pupil: | 13.3-4.4 mm |
| Weight: | 23 oz | Illumination: | Red |
Visionking 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is perfect for acquiring your targets faster as it can very well adapt to any light and weather conditions you might find yourself into. You will never worry about your targets missing your shots as long as you utilize this scope for your scout rifle.
The dials for both elevation and windage adjustments of Visionking 3-9×40 Rifle Scope can easily be reset. It allows you to maintain the vision calibration smoothly and return it to zero.
Pros
- Clear optics
- Quality construction
- Reticle responsible with no slop
Cons
- Hard to use turret
11. Celestron Ultima 65 Straight Spotting Scope
Are you looking for an all-rounding spotting and versatile scope? Then, Celestron Ultima 65 Straight Spotting Scope might be the one for you. This scope can provide you a great straight viewing angle due to its portable and compact design.
Celestron Ultima 65 Straight Spotting Scope has been a great outdoor companion for most scout rifle enthusiasts. It allows them to closely observe their surroundings and monitor their targets for a long-distance scale.
| Objective Lens: | 65 mm | Magnification: | 18-55x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reticle: | Mil-dot | Tube Diameter: | 1 in |
| Eye Relief: | 18 mm | Exit Pupil: | - |
| Weight: | 23 oz | Illumination: | None |
Say goodbye to your hunting days with foggy lenses, which makes it difficult during the rainy season. Guaranteed, Celestron Ultima 65 Straight Spotting Scope is resistant against water and fog. You can hunt in the wild smoothly and easily as it can work perfectly acceptable under the rain.
Celestron Ultima 65 Straight Spotting Scope is embedded with a huge pivot dial. It enables you to view your subject or target more clearly, which makes it easier for shooting. It also includes a built-in zoom eyepiece, which supports you in having more vivid details of your long-range targets in just a few seconds. Due to the high-quality feature of this scope, it is one of the best scope for scout rifle.
Aside from your scout rifle and using its built-in T Mount Adapter, Celestron Ultima 65 Straight Spotting Scope can also be attached to your own DLSR camera. Now you can enjoy capturing moments and images in the wild. Just make sure that your DLSR camera has a T Ring for mounting.
Pros
- Interchangeable Eyepiece
- Shoot long range distance
- Water-proof and fog proof design
- Provide Maximum light transmission
Cons
- Has focusing issue
12. Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope
Are you looking for a multi-functional spotting scope? Look no further and try out Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Scope! This Prism scope has been designed for the following outdoor activities:
Target Shooting – Your marksmanship skills will be amplified using Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope whenever you go out for target shooting or when you go out hunting in the forest. It allows you to view your targets more clearly, more vividly, and vividly in long-range distances.
| Objective Lens: | 80 mm | Magnification: | 20-60x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eye Relief: | 17-13.5 mm | Exit Pupil: | 3.2-1.10 mm |
| Weight: | 28 oz | Illumination: | None |
Archery – Using Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope in the archery field allows you to see the archery target and scoring discs more clearly and easily.
Bird Watching – Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope has a magnification spec of 20x to 60x, which enables you to zoom in your targets and observe them from afar. Using its Cellphone Adapter Mount, this spotting scope enables you to capture the images with your phone. It is a great way to practice your photography skills. Be it in the roof, courtyards, or balconies. As long as you are outdoors, you can always count on Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope.
Moon Observation – We all love observing the moon most, especially during the Lunar Eclipse, Supermoon, or Red Moon occurrence. Using Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope allows you to see the moon and its craters more vividly due to its exemplary performance. You can check out the stars at the night sky as well.
This spotting scope can also withstand even the toughest and most challenging weather conditions due to its magnalium framework with rubberized armor for optimal protection. It is resistant against water as well, so you won’t have to worry about fogging.
Gosky 20-60X 80 Porro Prism Spotting Scope has a compatible sunshade, which aids you to reduce glare from the sun while the 45º eyepiece can be smoothly adjusted to any viewing angles. Just loosen the adjustment collar located at the center according to your needs. The advanced feature makes it as a best scope for scout rifle.
Pros
- Lightweight Design
- Great magnification
- Good image clarity
- Comes with a lot of extra accessories
Cons
- Rotating mechanism sometimes feel flimsy
13. Roxant Authentic Blackbird Spotting Scope
Are you looking for a high definition scope with a built-in zoom feature? You may want to try Roxant Authentic Blackbird Spotting Scope. Its compact and accurate precision of 12x to 36x magnification offers you a better viewing experience than other similar products.
Roxant Authentic Blackbird Spotting Scope is embedded with higher-level BaK 4 Prism and multicoated lens, which can perfectly adapt to any light and weather conditions without compromising an optimized viewing experience it is designed with.
| Objective Lens: | 50 mm | Magnification: | 12 - 36x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eye Relief: | - | Exit Pupil: | 4.1-1.4 mm |
| Weight: | 17 oz | Illumination: | None |
Roxant Authentic Blackbird Spotting Scope is embedded with a Non-Slip Rubberized Central Ring, which can glide smoothly on the primary barrel.
This product has a retractable and extendable eyepiece, which can work well with or without the glasses. The built-in sunshade can effectively reduce the glare while providing you with a better image viewing. It can become your great ally during your target shooting or hunting session when using your scout rifle.
Roxant Authentic Blackbird Spotting Scope is a multifunctional tool which be used for the following activities:
• Nature and Wildlife Viewing
• Stargazing
• Hunting Sessions
• Recreational Target Shooting
• Survival Training
• Hiking and Camping Activities
• Bird Watching
• Surveillance
• Paramilitary Activities
• Law Enforcement
Pros
- Portable Design
- Comfortable eyepiece
- Non-slip construction
- High-defined image clarity
Cons
- Bit pricey
What is Scout Rifle Scope?
The scout scopes are specially designed for the scout rifle and the performance of these scopes are similar to the handgun scopes. The scout scopes have the long eye relief so that it can mount in front of the arrangement to ensure that the scopes are far away from the shooters to get the crisp and clear image of the targets.
If the scopes are far away from the shooter, it is impossible that the shooter is hit by the scope because of high recoil. The scout scopes are light in weight, so it does not add more weight in the front of the rifle. Most of the scout scopes are equipped with the 1-inch tubes and the design is resistant to heavy recoil.
The rarely illuminated reticles are designed in this scope. Most of the scout rifles are designed with the fixed magnification and the exceptional scopes have the variable magnification 2-6x or 2-8x. Due to the long eye relief of the scope, it has a narrow field of view.
Cooper Scout Rifle Criteria
After Jeff Cooper introduced the idea of a scout rifle in the 1980’s, the only way to get one for you is to build yourself. It is more easier for some modern shooters.
Some weapon manufacturing companies branded their weapon with the “scout rifle” name. While some others meet Cooper’s criteria, most of that performs well like the multi-purpose firearm.
Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Scope For Scout Rifle
Magnification
At first, the scout rifles were used with the 2X fixed power magnification scope because the fixed magnification scope provides a wide field of view. But now, most companies are introducing both fixed and variable power scopes.
If you want to choose the fixed power scope, then choosing the 2x magnification scope is a good choice. If you want to shoot the target at a little further distance by using the scout rifle, a 4x magnification scope is best enough for you, but you have to keep in mind that the field of view will be smaller, so the target acquisition might be slower. If you are choosing the fixed power magnification scope more than 4x, it will reduce the usefulness.
Choosing the variable power magnification scope provides more versatility to shoot in various situations. Choosing the 2x magnification for the close-range shooting is most important for the scout rifle.
Having the extra magnification scope provides more benefits when shooting in some situations like long-range shooting or shooting from the solid rest. The 2-7x variable power magnification range is an ideal choice for the scout rifle.
Eye Relief
Choosing the scout scope without the generous eye relief is not usable. Mounted ahead of the receiver is defined scout scope. If you don’t choose the scope with long eye relief, it is nearly impossible to use.
Eye relief is defined as the distance between the rear lens and the eye to obtain the full sight image.
In the traditional scope, the eye relief distance is from 3.5 inches to 4 inches. The eye relief distance is based on the magnification range and the scope design, but this is an average eye relief distance.
This range of eye relief is not enough for the scout. You have to choose at least 9 inches of eye relief for the scope to perform well with the scout rifle.
Reticle
A simple reticle design with a high degree of visibility is a key point to consider when choosing the scout scope. While the reticle’s illumination is not necessary to consider, it helps to easily see in any light conditions, it also improves the contrast of the target image.
Low Profile and Compact
These two features also improve the functionality of the scout scope. Choosing a big scope will reduce the performance of the scout rifle. Simply, a big scope is not good for the scout rifle. This feature may not be important to consider for every hunter and shooter, but some people consider this too.
What Type of Rifles Are Best For The Scout Scope?
Usually, the bolt-action rifle is considered a scout rifle. Fortunately, there is no problem when mounting the scout scope on the semi-automatic rifles. In this case, you can go for what works best for you.
Here, we refer to some rifles that really perform well with the scout scope.
- SKS – Reliable, Military surplus, Semi-automatic
- Mosin Nagant – Powerful, Military Surplus, Bolt-action
- Ruger 10/22 – Fun to Shoot, Affordable, Semi-automatic
- Springfield M1A Scout – Reliable, Quick Handling, Semi-automatic
- Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle – Scout scope, Powerful, Semi-automatic
- Ruger Mini-14 – Versatile, Classic Design, Semi-automatic. Read the best scopes for Mini 14 here.
Certainly, this is not a complete list by means, but it will give a good idea of rifle types that perform well with the scout scope attached.
Conclusion
There are so many rifle scopes produced in the market. Each scope has its own distinct features, which may be an advantage against its competitor.
And then, you may find yourself in a predicament for finding the right scope for your scout rifle. However, knowing your preferences and what suits your needs might just work for you.
Just remember that the scope was used by your friend may not work for you and vice versa, most especially if you have some distinct differences in what you both like.
I hope you can decide which spotting scope is appropriate for you and your scout rifle. On your next hunting or target shooting escapade in the wild, you will definitely enjoy the moment to the fullest!