10 Best SKS Scopes and Optics for 2024: A Hunter’s Guide
As an avid hunter who’s spent countless hours in the field with my trusty SKS, I know firsthand how crucial having the right optic can be. The SKS may be an old warhorse, but pair it with a quality scope and you’ve got yourself a tack-driver capable of putting meat in the freezer season after season.
After testing dozens of scopes on my own SKS and talking shop with fellow hunters, I’ve put together this list of the 10 best SKS scopes and optics for 2024. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or want to splurge on the latest tech, there’s something here for every SKS owner.
1. Vortex Strikefire II Red Dot Sight
Kicking off our list is the Vortex Strikefire II, my top pick for an SKS red dot sight. I’ve run this optic hard on multiple rifles and it’s never let me down.
Key Features:
– 4 MOA red/green dot
– 11 brightness settings
– Night vision compatible
– Up to 80,000 hour battery life
What I love about the Strikefire II is its versatility. The switchable red/green dot works great in any lighting conditions. On my last deer hunt, I was able to easily acquire my target in the low light of early morning thanks to the crisp dot.
The unlimited eye relief and parallax-free design mean you can shoot with both eyes open, maintaining full situational awareness. This came in clutch when I had a coyote try to sneak up on me while I was in my stand.
At around $200, it offers incredible value. The rugged construction can handle whatever abuse you throw at it, and it’s backed by Vortex’s legendary VIP warranty.
2. UTG 3-9X32 1″ BugBuster Scope
If you’re on a tight budget but still want a quality scope, look no further than the UTG BugBuster. This compact scope punches way above its weight class.
Key Features:
– 3-9x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– Emerald coated lenses
– Mil-dot reticle
– Adjustable objective
I was skeptical of how well a sub-$100 scope would perform, but the BugBuster surprised me. The glass is remarkably clear for the price point. I had no issues ringing steel at 200 yards during a recent range session.
The true strength of this scope is its versatility. The 3-9x magnification range is perfect for the effective range of the SKS. I’ve used it for everything from plinking to deer hunting with great results.
One thing to note – while it can handle the recoil of an SKS, I wouldn’t trust it on anything much more powerful. But for the price, it’s hard to beat for an SKS optic.
3. Primary Arms SLX 3-18x50mm FFP Gen III
For those wanting a high-end precision optic for their SKS, the Primary Arms SLX is tough to beat. While it may be overkill for some shooters, the glass quality and features are top-notch.
Key Features:
– 3-18x magnification
– First focal plane ACSS Apollo reticle
– 50mm objective lens
– Illuminated reticle
– Zero stop turrets
The star of the show here is Primary Arms’ ACSS Apollo reticle. It provides bullet drop compensation out to 800 yards, which is well beyond the effective range of the SKS. But it also works great for holdovers at closer ranges.
I recently took this scope out to the 600 yard range on my scoped SKS build. Even at max magnification, the image was crystal clear with no distortion. The zero stop turrets made it easy to quickly return to my 100 yard zero after dialing for long range shots.
At around $500, it’s not cheap. But the quality is on par with scopes costing twice as much. If you’re serious about squeezing every bit of accuracy out of your SKS, this is the scope to get.
4. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32
The Vortex Crossfire II hits the sweet spot of price and performance for an SKS scope. I’ve recommended this optic to several hunting buddies and they’ve all been thrilled with it.
Key Features:
– 2-7x magnification
– 32mm objective lens
– V-Plex reticle
– Long eye relief
– Fog proof and waterproof
The 2-7x magnification range is ideal for the SKS. At 2x, you’ve got a wide field of view for close-in shots. Crank it up to 7x and you can easily reach out to 300 yards and beyond.
I appreciate the simplicity of the V-Plex reticle. No complicated bullet drop compensators here – just a clean crosshair that gets the job done. The long eye relief makes it comfortable to shoot even with the SKS’s stout recoil.
Vortex’s lifetime warranty provides peace of mind that this scope will serve you well for years to come. At around $200, it offers an unbeatable combination of quality and value.
5. Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm
You can’t go wrong with a Leupold, and the VX-Freedom line brings their legendary quality to a more affordable price point. This 3-9×40 model is a classic choice for an SKS optic.
Key Features:
– 3-9x magnification
– 40mm objective lens
– Twilight Light Management System
– Duplex reticle
– Waterproof and fogproof
Leupold’s glass quality is second to none, and it really shines in low light conditions. The Twilight Light Management System adds precious minutes of shooting light at dawn and dusk – crucial for us hunters.
I’m a fan of the simple duplex reticle for hunting applications. The thick outer posts draw your eye to the center quickly, while the fine crosshairs allow for precise shot placement.
Built like a tank, this scope can handle any conditions you throw at it. I’ve had mine for years and it’s never lost zero, even after being banged around in my truck and treestand.
6. Athlon Optics Argos BTR Gen2 6-24×50
For long range enthusiasts looking to push their SKS to the limit, the Athlon Argos BTR is worth a look. While the SKS isn’t known for long range accuracy, this scope can help you squeeze every bit of performance out of it.
Key Features:
– 6-24x magnification
– 50mm objective lens
– First focal plane reticle
– Illuminated APMR MIL reticle
– Argon purged
The FFP reticle is a game changer for long range shooting. Holdovers and ranging are accurate at any magnification. I’ve used this scope to consistently hit targets out to 500 yards with my accurized SKS – not bad for a rifle designed in the 1940s!
The glass quality is excellent, especially given the reasonable price point of around $350. Edge-to-edge clarity is maintained even at max magnification.
One downside – at over 30 ounces, it’s a hefty optic. But if you’re building a precision SKS rig, the extra weight is worth it for the optical performance.
7. Burris Fullfield E1 3-9x40mm
Burris may not have the name recognition of some other brands, but they make rock-solid scopes at reasonable prices. The Fullfield E1 is a great all-around choice for an SKS.
Key Features:
– 3-9x magnification
– 40mm objective lens
– Ballistic Plex E1 reticle
– Long eye relief
– Nitrogen purged
The standout feature here is the Ballistic Plex E1 reticle. It provides holdover points out to 500 yards, calibrated for common hunting cartridges. While not a perfect match for the 7.62×39, it’s close enough to be very useful.
I’ve found the optical clarity to be on par with scopes costing much more. The positive click adjustments make zeroing a breeze.
Burris’s Forever Warranty is one of the best in the business – they’ll repair or replace your scope no questions asked, even if you’re not the original owner.
8. Bushnell Banner 3-9×40
Sometimes simple is best, and the Bushnell Banner delivers no-nonsense performance at a budget-friendly price point. This scope has been a staple of hunters for decades for good reason.
Key Features:
– 3-9x magnification
– 40mm objective lens
– Multi-X reticle
– Dusk & Dawn Brightness coatings
– Waterproof and fogproof
I’ve had one of these on my SKS for years and it’s never let me down. The 3-9x magnification range covers all the bases for hunting and target shooting with an SKS.
The Dusk & Dawn Brightness coatings do make a noticeable difference in low light. I’ve taken several deer in the last few minutes of legal shooting light thanks to this scope.
While it may lack some of the fancy features of pricier optics, the Banner just flat-out works. If you want a reliable scope without breaking the bank, you can’t go wrong here.
9. Nikon P-Tactical .223 3-9×40
While designed for the .223, this Nikon scope works great on an SKS as well. The BDC reticle can be easily adapted for 7.62×39 ballistics.
Key Features:
– 3-9x magnification
– 40mm objective lens
– BDC 600 reticle
– Quick focus eyepiece
– Spring-loaded instant zero reset turrets
The BDC 600 reticle is the star here. While calibrated for .223, the holdover points are close enough for 7.62×39 to be very useful. I’ve used Nikon’s Spot On app to get exact ranges for my particular load.
Optical clarity is excellent, as you’d expect from Nikon. The quick focus eyepiece makes it easy to get a crisp sight picture even in the heat of the moment.
One unique feature is the spring-loaded instant zero reset turrets. After sighting in, you can quickly reset to zero without tools. Very handy for making field adjustments.
10. Sig Sauer Romeo5 1x20mm Red Dot
We’ll wrap up our list with another red dot option – the Sig Sauer Romeo5. This compact sight is perfect for close range work with an SKS.
Key Features:
– 2 MOA red dot
– MOTAC (Motion Activated Illumination)
– 10 illumination settings
– Waterproof and fogproof
– Includes low and high mounts
What sets the Romeo5 apart is the MOTAC system. It automatically turns on when it senses motion and shuts off when still. This greatly extends battery life – up to 40,000 hours on some settings.
I love using this for hog hunting. The always-ready dot allows for lightning fast target acquisition when those tuskers come charging in. The included mounts make it easy to get the perfect height on your SKS.
At around $150, it offers features usually found on much more expensive sights. If you prefer a red dot over magnified optics, the Romeo5 should be at the top of your list.
Conclusion
There you have it – my picks for the 10 best SKS scopes and optics in 2024. From budget-friendly options to high-end glass, there’s something here for every SKS owner and shooting style.
Remember, the best scope is the one that meets your specific needs. Consider your budget, intended use, and personal preferences when making your choice.
Whichever optic you choose, adding a quality scope to your SKS will greatly enhance its capabilities. Whether you’re ringing steel at the range or putting meat in the freezer, the right scope will help you get the most out of this classic rifle.
Happy hunting, and may your SKS always shoot true!