Imagine effortlessly switching between engaging targets at close quarters and taking on challenges at extreme distances with unparalleled accuracy! In this comprehensive guide, Best Scope for Short and Long Range, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of optics, unveiling the best scopes meticulously chosen for both short and long-range shooting. Each scope is meticulously selected for its exceptional performance, build quality, and value for money. We’ll also delve into the intricate details, highlighting their unique features, pros, and cons to help you make a choice that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
How Far can a 20X Scope See?
In general, a 20x scope is capable of providing clear and detailed views of objects at significant distances. For most practical shooting purposes, a 20x scope can effectively engage targets at distances well beyond 1,000 yards (approximately 914 meters). This makes it suitable for long-range shooting, precision shooting competitions, and tactical applications where the shooter needs to accurately engage distant targets.
What is The Most Popular Scope Size?
The most popular scope size for a wide range of shooting applications is typically within the 3-9x40mm or 4-12x50mm range. These sizes strike a good balance between magnification versatility and objective lens diameter, thus providing adequate light transmission and a field of view suitable for both short,medium-range shooting, and long-range shooting.
What Magnification do I Need to Shoot 1000 Yards?
To effectively shoot at 1000 yards, a magnification range of approximately 16x to 25x is recommended. This level of magnification allows for a clear and detailed view of the target, aiding in precise target acquisition, shot placement, and compensation for variables such as windage and elevation.
Related Article: The Best 1000 Yard Scope under $500
Best Scope for Short and Long-Range
1) Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope
Our first contender is the Leupold VX-3i 3.5-10x40mm Rifle Scope, it is a perfect scope for both short-range and long-range shooting.
One of the standout features of the Leupold scopes is the Twilight Max Light Management System, and this scope is not left behind. This system enhances light transmission, offering extended hunting or shooting hours during dawn and dusk.
Has a magnification range of 3.5-10x, and it perfectly balances short-range to medium-range shooting and the ability to zoom in for more precise shots at longer distances.
The scope is durable, it is crafted from high-quality aluminum, thus making it resistant to recoil and able to withstand rugged outdoor use.
Also, the scope features a second focal plane (SFP) reticle, maintaining a constant reticle size regardless of magnification.
Key Features
- Magnification: 3.5 – 10 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 4 – 11.43 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 11 – 29.9 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 4.4 – 3.6 inches
- Weight: 12.6 oz
- Length: 12.6 in
Pros
- Has Twilight Max Lens System for unequaled light management
- Has DiamondCoat 2 lens coating for durability and clarity
- Argon/Krypton waterproofing for signature Leupold waterproof integrity
- Has Twin bias spring erector system
- Long eye relief
Cons
- None
2) Vortex Diamondback 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
On to the next, we have the Focal Plane Rifle Scope DBK-04-BDC. It is a well-tested scope for high performance.
Features a variable magnification range of 4x to 12x, which provides shooters with the versatility needed for a wide variety of applications, from long-range precision shots to short-range engagements.
The scope has pop-up dials that provide easy, precise adjustment of elevation and windage, making audible clicks that are easily and quickly counted.
For durability, this scope is no exception. It is constructed from a solid, single-piece tube of aircraft-grade aluminum, it can endure rugged use and recoil from various firearms.
Key Features
- Magnification: 4 – 12 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 40 mm
- Tube Diameter: 1 inches
- Exit Pupil: 3.3 – 10 mm
- Eye Relief: 3.1 – 3.4 inches
- Weight: 14.6 oz
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
Pros
- It is fully multi-coated
- Affordable price
- Durable and lightweight
- Easy to use reticle
Cons
- None
3) Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II 3-18x50mm is a high-performance rifle scope renowned for its exceptional optical clarity, precision, and versatility.
Has a variable magnification range from 3x at the lower end to 18x at the higher end, and a 50mm objective lens diameter, which allows for superior light transmission and clarity even in challenging lighting conditions.
Features first focal plane reticle, meaning that the reticle’s subtensions remain consistent at all magnification levels, ensuring accurate ranging and holdover corrections regardless of the zoom setting.
The scope has a robust construction and high-quality materials that make it durable and capable of withstanding rugged usage and challenging environmental conditions, thus also making it a reliable choice for avid hunters, precision shooters, and tactical operators.
The optical system of the scope is also top-notch, it is designed with high-definition, extra-low dispersion glass that delivers exceptional resolution, color fidelity, and sharpness across the entire field of view.
Specifications
- Magnification: 3 – 18 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Tube Diameter: 34 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.78 – 16.67 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 6.25 – 37.8 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.7 inches
- Weight: 46.5 oz
Pros
- It is illuminated
- Has APO System
- XR Plus Fully Multi-Coated
- Has Glass-Etched Reticle
- Waterproof
- Fogproof
- Shockproof
Cons
- None
4) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Rifle Scope
On to the next is the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm rifle scope which is a top-tier optics solution designed for discerning marksmen seeking superior performance and precision.
With a magnification range of 5x to 25x and a large 56mm objective lens diameter, this scope excels in delivering outstanding optical clarity and light transmission.
The scope is built for durability and reliability, as it is crafted from high-quality materials and engineered to endure harsh conditions.
It also features the Twilight Max HD Light Management System and DiamondCoat 2 coatings on the lens surfaces to optimize light transmission, minimize glare, and ensure scratch resistance, thus contributing to a clear and sharp image even in challenging lighting conditions.
In addition, has a precision-adjustment ZeroLock elevation dial, therefore making it easy to set and lock the zero point after sighting in.
Specifications
- Magnification: 5 – 25 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 56 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: First Focal Plane (FFP)
- Exit Pupil: 2.2 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 4.2 – 20.4 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.6 – 3.8 inches
- Weight: 907.18 g
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Waterproof/fog proof
- Fast-focus eyepiece
- Precision side focus
- Backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee
Cons
- None
Popular Article: 5 Best Leupold Long-Range Scopes
5) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 Rifle Scope has gained an unbelievable tactical edge in the field, both in short-range shooting and long-range shooting.
It is crafted with illuminated reticles, that offer 10 different intensity levels with off positions between each setting so that you can easily customize your sighting experience at the range.
The glass-etched reticle of the scope also offers excellent durability and visibility, while the XD lens elements and XR fully multi-coated lenses provide exceptional resolution, color fidelity, and light transmission.
Has a variable magnification range, starting from 5x and extending up to 25x, providing flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
Specifications
- Magnification: 5 – 25 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Exit Pupil: 2 – 10 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 4.8 – 24.1 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 3.4 inches
- Weight: 31.2 oz
- Length: 16 inches
Pros
- It is fully multi-coated
- Durable construction
- Has a zero-stop system
- Build inaccuracy
- Has illuminated reticle
Cons
- None
6) Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope
Lastly, is the Vortex Viper HS LR 4-16x50mm rifle scope which is a versatile and precision-oriented optics solution designed to cater to the needs of hunters and shooters.
Key to this scope’s design is its second focal plane (SFP) reticle, where the reticle size remains constant relative to the target as magnification is adjusted.
The scope offers a variable magnification range, that starts at 4x and extends up to 16x, thus providing versatility for a wide range of shooting distances and scenarios.
It features extra-low dispersion (XD) glass elements and XR fully multi-coated lenses, that provide exceptional resolution, color fidelity, and optimal light transmission.
Having the 30mm tube diameter allows for a reasonable amount of internal adjustment, allowing shooters to fine-tune their shots for windage and elevation.
Specifications
- Magnification: 4 – 16 x
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50 mm
- Tube Diameter: 30 mm
- Reticle Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane (SFP)
- Exit Pupil: 3.13 – 12.5 mm
- Field of View, Linear: 7.4 – 27.4 ft at 100 yds
- Eye Relief: 4 inches
- Weight: 21.4 oz
Pros
- Has CRS Zero Stop
- XR Fully Multi-Coated
- First Focal Plane Reticle
- Precision-Force Spring System
- Fast Focus Eyepiece
- Waterproof
- Fogproof
- Shockproof
Cons
- None
Also read: 5 Best Long-range Rifle Scopes 1000 Yards Plus
Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Scope for Short and Long-Range
- Magnification Range:
Look for a scope with a wide magnification range, this allows you to zoom in for precise shots at long distances and zoom out for a broader view at shorter ranges.
- Objective Lens Diameter:
Opting for a larger objective lens diameter (e.g., 50mm) it allows more light transmission, enhancing visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
- Durability and Weather Resistance:
Always ensure the scope is built to withstand recoil, shock, and adverse weather conditions. Also check features such as shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof to ensure longevity and reliability in different environments.
- Lens Coatings:
Features like Fully multi-coated lenses reduce glare, enhance light transmission, and provide better image clarity.
- Eye Relief and Exit Pupil:
A scope with adequate eye relief prevents injury and provides a comfortable viewing experience, especially with high-caliber rifles. The exit pupil, calculated by dividing the objective lens diameter by the magnification, should match your eye’s dilation in varying light conditions.
FAQS
- Are lens coatings important for short and long-range scopes?
Yes, lens coatings are crucial for optimal light transmission, reduced glare, and enhanced image clarity. Coatings like Fully multi-coated lenses are highly beneficial for both short and long-range scopes as they improve performance in various lighting conditions.
- What is the recommended eye relief for short and long-range scopes?
Long eye relief, typically 3 inches or more, is important to prevent injury and provide a comfortable viewing experience, especially for high-caliber rifles used in long-range shooting.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect balance between short and long-range accuracy is paramount, and the right scope can make all the difference. Investing in a scope that encompasses the optimal magnification range, robust durability, and cutting-edge features is a decision that enhances your shooting prowess. With the best scopes for short and long-range shooting by your side, you’re not just aiming but you’re hitting your target, shot after shot, creating a legacy of precision and excellence.
Related: 8 Best Vortex Scope for Long-range