As an avid hunter and night vision enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of testing out many rifle scopes over the years. But time and time again, I find myself coming back to Zeiss. There’s just something special about peering through that German glass and experiencing the clarity and precision it offers.
For 2024, Zeiss continues to impress with their lineup of premium optics. Whether you’re looking for a versatile hunting scope or a long-range precision beast, Zeiss has you covered. I’ve put together my picks for the 10 best Zeiss scopes this year to help you find the perfect glass for your rifle.
1. Zeiss Conquest V4 6-24x50mm
If I could only choose one all-around Zeiss scope, the Conquest V4 6-24×50 would be it. This scope hits the sweet spot of versatility, optical quality, and value.
The 6-24x magnification range covers everything from close brush hunting to long-range shots. And the 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light for those crucial low-light periods at dawn and dusk.
What really sets this scope apart is the glass quality. Zeiss uses their premium T* multi-coatings to maximize light transmission. Looking through this scope is like peering through an open window – the clarity and color fidelity are outstanding.
- 90% LIGHT TRANSMISSION: Higher definition glass produces 90% to-the-eye light transmission, great low-light performance and excellent target resolution across the entire magnification range.
- ZEISS T* COATING: Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER: There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
For precision shooting, the exposed elevation turret with 1/4 MOA clicks allows for easy dialing. And the Z-MOA reticle provides holdover references without cluttering the sight picture.
At around $1,000, it’s not a budget scope. But for the optical performance you get, it’s an incredible value compared to other premium brands. If you want one do-it-all Zeiss scope, this is it.
2. Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12x56mm
For dedicated low-light hunters, the Conquest V4 3-12x56mm is hard to beat. That massive 56mm objective lens sucks in light like a black hole. I’ve used this scope to cleanly take whitetails well after legal shooting light with my local regulations.
The lower 3-12x magnification range is ideal for most hunting scenarios. You get a wide field of view at 3x for tracking moving game. But 12x provides enough reach for precise shot placement at longer ranges.
Like all Conquest V4 scopes, the glass quality is superb. Images are bright and crisp from edge to edge. The illuminated reticle is also a nice touch for low light situations.
- 90% LIGHT TRANSMISSION – Higher definition glass produces 90% to-the-eye light transmission, great low-light performance and excellent target resolution across the entire magnification range.
- ZEISS T* COATING – Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER – There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
- 4X ZOOM RANGE – The 4x zoom range allows hunters to perfectly recognize details and offers an excellent overall view for a safe and accurate shot.
Overall, this is my go-to whitetail scope for those last few minutes of shooting light. If you hunt in heavy timber or frequently find yourself out at last light, give this one a hard look.
3. Zeiss Conquest V6 3-18×50
Stepping up to the Conquest V6 line brings even better optical performance and more precision features. The 3-18×50 model offers a versatile magnification range suitable for everything from close shots to long-range precision work.
What sets the V6 apart is the 6x zoom ratio (compared to 4x on the V4 line). This gives you more flexibility to dial in the perfect magnification for any situation. The glass is also a step up, with incredible clarity and light transmission.
- 92% LIGHT TRANSMISSION – The Ultra-FL Concept is containing several SCHOTT fluoride glasses for absolute color fidelity, brightness, clarity and the finest resolution of details, even in the harshest conditions and most challenging environment.
- ZEISS T* COATING – Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER – There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
For long range hunters, the exposed elevation turret with a locking zero stop is a welcome addition. The ZBR-2 reticle also provides more detailed holdover and windage references than the simpler V4 reticles.
While pricier than the V4 line, the optical and mechanical upgrades make this a worthy choice for serious hunters and precision shooters. It’s become my go-to scope for Western big game hunting where shots can range from 50 to 500+ yards.
4. Zeiss Victory V8 1.8-14×50
Now we’re getting into the premium stuff. The Victory V8 line represents some of Zeiss’ finest riflescopes, with absolutely stunning optical performance.
The 1.8-14×50 model is incredibly versatile. At 1.8x, you get an ultra-wide field of view for fast target acquisition in close quarters. Crank it up to 14x and you have plenty of reach for precise long distance shots.
But it’s the glass quality that really sets the V8 apart. Zeiss uses fluoride lenses and their proprietary coatings to deliver jaw-dropping clarity and color. The first time I looked through a V8, I literally said “wow” out loud.
- 92% LIGHT TRANSMISSION; The Ultra-FL Concept is containing several SCHOTT fluoride glasses for absolute color fidelity, brightness, clarity and the finest resolution of details, even in the harshest conditions and most challenging environment. The ZEISS T* and LotuTec-Coating guarantees brilliant images and enables to see all details clear and crisp even under challenging light situations and bad weather conditions.
- COMPACT AND HEAVY-DUTY; 30mm main tube housing has been tested to endure over 800 cycles of impact testing at 1,000 g-force and final tested to withstand multiple impact cycles at 1,500 g-force. V8 scopes are waterproof to 13 feet for up to two hours.
- DAYLIGHT VISIBLE ultra-fine illuminated reticle; ensures extremely small target coverage to allow for maximum precision at any distance under all light situations.
The illuminated reticle is also top-notch, with 10 day and 10 night brightness settings. For low light hunting, it’s hard to beat.
Yes, it’s expensive at over $3,000. But for hunters who demand the absolute best and can justify the cost, the Victory V8 1.8-14×50 delivers stunning performance.
5. Zeiss Conquest V4 4-16×50
Back to the value-oriented Conquest line, the V4 4-16×50 hits a real sweet spot for all-around hunting and target shooting.
The 4-16x magnification range covers most practical hunting and shooting scenarios. 4x is low enough for close shots in heavy cover. 16x provides enough reach for precise shot placement out to 500 yards and beyond for skilled shooters.
Once again, the optical quality of the Conquest V4 line impresses. Images are bright and clear across the entire field of view. The 50mm objective strikes a nice balance between light gathering ability and keeping overall scope size reasonable.
I’m a big fan of the simple ZBi ballistic reticle on this scope. It provides bullet drop compensation out to 800 yards without cluttering up the sight picture. For most hunting applications, it’s all you need.
- 90% LIGHT TRANSMISSION – Higher definition glass produces 90% to-the-eye light transmission, great low-light performance and excellent target resolution across the entire magnification range.
- ZEISS T* COATING – Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER – There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
- BALLISTIC STOP – for absolute confirmation of zero and external, multi-turn elevation turret with precise .25 MOA per-click settings.
At around $850 street price, this scope delivers a ton of performance for the money. It’s become my most frequently recommended scope for hunters looking to upgrade to premium glass without breaking the bank.
6. Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30×50
For long range precision, it’s hard to beat the Conquest V6 5-30×50. This scope is equally at home punching paper at 1,000 yards or making ethical long range hunting shots.
The huge magnification range gives you tons of flexibility. 5x is low enough for closer shots, while 30x allows for insane precision at extended ranges. Despite the high magnification, the image quality stays tack sharp throughout the entire range.
Zeiss’ premium SCHOTT fluoride glass delivers outstanding clarity and color. The fine crosshair reticle allows for ultra-precise aiming without obscuring the target.
- 92% LIGHT TRANSMISSION – The Ultra-FL Concept is containing several SCHOTT fluoride glasses for absolute color fidelity, brightness, clarity and the finest resolution of details, even in the harshest conditions and most challenging environment.
- ZEISS T* COATING – Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER – There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
Exposed tactical turrets with 0.1 MRAD clicks allow you to quickly dial for long distance shots. The parallax adjustment ensures a crisp reticle focus at any range.
While it may be overkill for many hunting applications, this is my go-to scope for long range target shooting and precision hunting scenarios. If you’re a hunter who likes to stretch the distance, this scope will not disappoint.
7. Zeiss Victory V8 4.8-35×60
The Victory V8 4.8-35×60 takes long range precision to the absolute limit. This is Zeiss’ top-of-the-line offering for extreme distance shooting.
Let’s start with that massive 60mm objective lens. It gathers every last photon of light for incredibly bright images, even in the dimmest conditions. Combined with Zeiss’ premium glass and coatings, the image quality is simply stunning.
The vast magnification range gives you tremendous flexibility. 4.8x is still usable for closer ranges, while 35x allows for insane precision past 1,000 yards.
- 92% Light Transmission – The Ultra-FL Concept is containing several SCHOTT fluoride glasses for absolute color fidelity, brightness, clarity and the finest resolution of details, even in the harshest conditions and most challenging environment. The ZEISS T* and LotuTec-Coating guarantees brilliant images and enables to see all details clear and crisp even under challenging light situations and bad weather conditions.
- Compact and heavy-duty – 34mm main tube housing has been tested to endure over 800 cycles of impact testing at 1,000 g-force and final tested to withstand multiple impact cycles at 1,500 g-force. V8 scopes are waterproof to 13 feet for up to two hours.
- Daylight visible ultra-fine illuminated reticle – ensures extremely small target coverage to allow for maximum precision at any distance under all light situations.
The ASV LongRange turret system makes dialing for long shots a breeze. Just range your target, dial to the appropriate distance, and send it. The ultra-fine illuminated reticle allows for incredibly precise shot placement.
Make no mistake, this is an extremely specialized optic with a price tag to match. But for long range precision shooters who demand the absolute best, the Victory V8 4.8-35×60 delivers unmatched performance.
8. Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12×44
The Conquest V4 3-12×44 brings Zeiss quality down to a more affordable price point. This scope delivers 90% of the performance of higher-end Zeiss models at a fraction of the cost.
The 3-12x magnification range covers most practical hunting scenarios. 3x gives you a wide field of view for close shots and tracking moving game. 12x provides enough reach for precise shot placement out to 300-400 yards for most hunters.
Despite the lower price, the optical quality is still excellent. Images are bright and clear with good low light performance. The simple duplex reticle is fast and intuitive.
- 90% LIGHT TRANSMISSION – Higher definition glass produces 90% to-the-eye light transmission, great low-light performance and excellent target resolution across the entire magnification range.
- ZEISS T* COATING – Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER – There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
I particularly like the compact dimensions and light weight of this scope. At under 14 inches long and 18 ounces, it’s a great choice for mountain rifles where every ounce matters.
For around $700 street price, this scope is an excellent value. It allows hunters to experience Zeiss quality without dropping thousands on a flagship model.
9. Zeiss Conquest V6 1-6×24
The Conquest V6 1-6×24 is purpose-built for fast shooting at close to medium ranges. This scope type has become incredibly popular for 3-gun competition and tactical-style carbines.
At 1x, the scope functions almost like a red dot sight. With both eyes open, target acquisition is lightning fast. Crank it up to 6x and you have enough magnification for precise shots out to 300 yards or more.
The illuminated reticle features 10 brightness settings to match any lighting condition. The simple post design is intuitive and fast.
- 92% LIGHT TRANSMISSION – The Ultra-FL Concept is containing several SCHOTT fluoride glasses for absolute color fidelity, brightness, clarity and the finest resolution of details, even in the harshest conditions and most challenging environment.
- ZEISS T* COATING – Guaranteed brilliant, high-contrast images, particularly in adverse light conditions and twilight. The coating is tuned to each lens individually for maximum clarity.
- A CLEAR VIEW IN ANY WEATHER – There are always exciting things to be seen in the world of nature, even in wet weather. ZEISS developed LotuTec as a coating for binoculars and scopes that enables a clear and unhindered view in all weather conditions.
- MADE IN GERMANY – Extremely reliable internal components and legendary precision mechanics ensure consistent and flawless operation for decades.
What sets the Zeiss apart from cheaper 1-6x scopes is the optical quality. The glass is incredibly clear with minimal distortion, even at 1x. Eye relief is also very forgiving.
While it may seem expensive compared to budget 1-6x scopes, the optical performance makes it worth it for serious shooters. This has become my go-to optic for 3-gun matches and carbine training.
10. Zeiss Victory V8 2.8-20×56
Rounding out our list is another premium offering from the Victory V8 line. The 2.8-20×56 offers incredible versatility for hunters who may encounter any range from close up to long distance.
2.8x on the low end gives you a wide field of view for up-close shots and tracking moving game. Crank it up to 20x and you have more than enough magnification for long range precision.
The huge 56mm objective lens delivers exceptional low light performance. I’ve used this scope to clearly see and identify game well past legal shooting light.
Like all Victory scopes, the optical quality is simply stunning. Images are bright and razor sharp from edge to edge. The illuminated reticle is crisp and precise.
The ASV LongRange ballistic turret makes compensating for bullet drop at long range a breeze. Just dial to your target distance and hold dead on.
- 92% Light Transmission – The Ultra-FL Concept is containing several SCHOTT fluoride glasses for absolute color fidelity, brightness, clarity and the finest resolution of details, even in the harshest conditions and most challenging environment. The ZEISS T* and LotuTec-Coating guarantees brilliant images and enables to see all details clear and crisp even under challenging light situations and bad weather conditions.
- Compact and heavy-duty – 30mm main tube housing has been tested to endure over 800 cycles of impact testing at 1,000 g-force and final tested to withstand multiple impact cycles at 1,500 g-force. V8 scopes are waterproof to 13 feet for up to two hours.
- Daylight visible ultra-fine illuminated reticle – ensures extremely small target coverage to allow for maximum precision at any distance under all light situations.
While the price tag may induce sticker shock, this scope delivers unmatched versatility and performance for serious hunters. If you want the best of the best and can justify the cost, the Victory V8 2.8-20×56 won’t disappoint.
Absolutely! Let’s dive deeper into some key considerations when choosing a Zeiss scope and explore why they’re worth the investment.
Why Choose Zeiss?
You might be wondering, “With so many scope brands out there, why should I go with Zeiss?” As someone who’s used countless scopes over the years, I can confidently say that Zeiss offers something special. Here’s why:
Unparalleled Glass Quality: Zeiss is renowned for their optical expertise, and it shows in their scopes. The clarity, color fidelity, and light transmission of Zeiss glass is truly exceptional. When you’re trying to pick out a bedded buck in heavy cover at last light, that optical edge can make all the difference.
Precision Engineering: German engineering isn’t just a marketing slogan with Zeiss. Their scopes are built to incredibly tight tolerances, ensuring reliable and repeatable performance. Turret adjustments are crisp and accurate, critical for long-range shooting.
Durability: Zeiss scopes are built to withstand harsh conditions. I’ve used them in pouring rain, freezing temperatures, and dusty environments without issue. The waterproof and fogproof construction holds up to real-world abuse.
Innovation: Zeiss continues to push the envelope with new technologies. Features like their ASV LongRange turrets and advanced illumination systems show their commitment to improving the shooting experience.
Resale Value: While not the primary consideration, it’s worth noting that Zeiss scopes tend to hold their value exceptionally well. If you ever decide to upgrade or switch systems, you’ll likely recoup a good portion of your investment.
Choosing the Right Zeiss Scope for Your Needs
With so many great options, how do you pick the right Zeiss scope? Here are some factors to consider:
Hunting Style: Are you primarily a tree stand whitetail hunter, or do you chase elk in wide open country? This will influence your ideal magnification range and objective lens size.
Typical Shooting Distances: Be honest about the ranges you typically encounter. While it’s fun to have 20x magnification, it’s overkill if you rarely shoot past 200 yards.
Low Light Performance: If you frequently hunt dawn and dusk, prioritize larger objective lenses and illuminated reticles.
Weight Considerations: For mountain hunting or long treks, every ounce counts. Compact scopes like the Conquest V4 3-12×44 shine here.
Reticle Preference: Zeiss offers everything from simple duplex reticles to complex ranging reticles. Choose one that matches your shooting style and skill level.
Budget: While all Zeiss scopes offer excellent performance, there’s a significant price range across their lines. The Conquest series offers great value, while the Victory line is for those demanding the absolute best.
My Personal Zeiss Journey
I still remember the first time I looked through a high-end Zeiss scope. It was a Victory model that a buddy let me try during an evening whitetail hunt. As the light faded, I was amazed at how bright and clear the image remained compared to my budget scope.
That experience sent me down the Zeiss rabbit hole. I started with a Conquest V4 4-16×50 for my all-around hunting rifle. The optical improvement was immediately noticeable, and my confidence at longer ranges increased substantially.
As I got more into long range shooting, I upgraded to a Conquest V6 5-30×50 for my dedicated precision rifle. The ability to clearly see bullet impacts at 1000 yards still amazes me.
Most recently, I splurged on a Victory V8 1.8-14×50 for my dream custom hunting rifle. It’s arguably overkill, but the joy I get from using it makes the investment worthwhile for me.
Final Thoughts
While Zeiss scopes aren’t the cheapest options out there, I firmly believe they offer excellent value for the serious hunter or shooter. The optical clarity, precision, and reliability translate directly to improved performance in the field.
Whether you’re making a threading a shot through thick timber or stretching your ethical hunting range, quality glass is a game-changer. Zeiss continues to impress me with their commitment to optical excellence across their entire line.
Remember, the “best” scope is the one that meets your specific needs and budget. Any of the Zeiss scopes on this list will serve you well – it’s just a matter of choosing the right tool for your particular job.
So take some time to really think about your hunting style and shooting needs. Visit a dealer if possible to look through different models. And most importantly, once you’ve made your choice, get out there and practice! The best scope in the world is only as good as the shooter behind it.
Happy hunting, and here’s to crisp, clear views of your next trophy through that premium Zeiss glass!
There you have it – my picks for the 10 best Zeiss scopes in 2024. From affordable hunters to ultra-premium long range optics, Zeiss continues to impress with their optical quality and precision.
While Zeiss scopes aren’t cheap, I’ve found their performance and reliability to be worth the investment for serious hunters and shooters. The clarity and precision of premium German glass is hard to beat.
No matter which Zeiss scope you choose, you can be confident you’re getting a top-quality optic that will serve you well for years to come. Now get out there and put that German engineering to work in the field!