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Best Long Range Rifle Scopes in 2023 [Hands-On]

Want the best long range scope for your purpose? We hands-on test the 9 most popular scopes. Complete with real view-throughs, tracking tests, and video.
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    Want to consistently hit targets at 1000 yards plus?

    HBH 1000 Known Distance Range
    HBH 1000 Known Distance Range

    You’re going to need a capable rifle, match ammo,…and then some decent glass.

    We’ll start with hands-on covering 9 popular long range scopes.  As I test out more scopes I’ll keep adding to this article.

    9 Tested Long Range Scopes
    Tested Long Range Scopes

    They’ll be view-through images, tracking tests, a lot of subjective stuff, and short videos covering every scope.

    Leupold Mark 5HD 25x
    Leupold Mark 5HD 25x

    By the end you’ll have a great idea of the best long range scope for your budget and purpose.

    Summary of Our Top Picks

    1. BUDGET PICK

      Vortex Optics 4-24x50 Strike Eagle

      Great entry point option if you don't want to spend too much. Downside is there is some distortion at higher magnifications.

    2. EDITOR'S PICK

      Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II

      From glass clarity to ease of mounting to the crisp clicks of the knobs, this scope gets top score and is our top pick for long range shooting.

    3. ALSO DECENT

      Leupold VX-3i LRP 8.5-25x50

      Good clarity and feels quality, but falls short on eye relief and eye box, and track testing.

    4. RUNNER UP

      Leupold Mark 5HD Rifle Scope, 5-25x56mm

      Glass clarity is great at all magnifications. Has all the bells and whistles such as an integrated throw lever and CCH reticle.

    5. BEST AROUND $1000

      Burris XTR2 5-25x50mm

      A great $1,000 optic option. Glass is top quality and reticles is one of our favorite. Downside is less than ideal eye box and stiff turrets.

    6. RUNNER UP $1000

      Steiner Optics P4Xi 4-16x56mm SCR Scope x 40mm

      Super clear and bright glass. Overall, quality scope that is battle tested.

    7. BEST COMPACT SCOPE

      EOTECH Vudu 5-25x50

      If you're looking for something shorter, this is a great option. The quality is excellent and we got pretty good results from the track testing.

    8. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

      Primary Arms PLX Series 6-30X56mm

      The key selling point is the Japanese glass. Overall, this gets top score from us all around. Also a big plus with Primary Arms' lifetime warranty.

    9. BEST TOP-OF-THE-LINE PICK

      Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x56 H2CMR

      If money were no object, this would be our TOP pick. Great clarity even at max magnification with little to no distortion.

    Table of Contents

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    How Much Should I Spend on a Rifle Scope?

    Get ready for some firearm sayings…

    The old rule of thumb was spend as much on your scope as your rifle.

    Oof.

    Cash Cannon
    Cash Cannon

    There’s so many factors like your rifle quality and intended purpose…plus scope quality has risen while prices have dropped.

    I’d would instead update the advice to buy the best scope you can afford.

    Buy Yourself Something Nice
    Buy Yourself Something Nice

    If in doubt…I always skew more towards a buy once, cry once mentality since crappy glass is not fun to shoot through…and you can always remount your nice scope onto a better future rifle.

    My DTA SRS with Schmidt & Bender 5-25x PMII
    My DTA SRS with Schmidt & Bender 5-25x PMII

    But I have to warn you…these scopes I’m about to show you are a pretty penny since they are from some of the most reputable scope manufacturers.

    Basic Scope Terms

    I’ll be using some technical terms so here’s a basic rundown of 8 terms:

    1. Eye Relief

    The distance from the scope to your eye where you can see the full picture.

    You want it far enough(I’d say minimum is 3.5 inches) so if you’re shooting magnums you don’t bash your eye.

    You can roughly see how much eye relief each scope has later on by how far I mount each one.

    Leupold LRP Mounted
    Leupold LRP Mounted

    2. Eye Box

    The spot behind the scope where you can see everything at all magnifications.

    This relates to eye relief but I use this term as how “spot on” you have to be to see everything.  Some scopes are more forgiving than others.

    3. Parallax

    Scopes are glass lenses at the end of the day…and they can only show a clear image at one set distance.

    The parallax knob (usually on the left side) lets you focus for the set distance.

    Steiner P4Xi Mounted
    Steiner P4Xi Mounted

    4. Windage & Elevation

    Those knobs you see people crank?

    The top is for elevation (up/down) while the right side is for windage (left/right).

    Schmidt & Bender PMII Turrets
    Schmidt & Bender PMII Turrets

    5. MOA vs Mil

    Two different units of reticle and adjustment knob setup.

    For the most part I like Mil better since it’s what I’m used to…and what my buddies use so it’s easier for us to spot each other.

    If you’re just starting out…it’s ok to go with MOA (I did).

    Just be sure that the units of the knobs and the reticle match up.

    6. Tracking Test

    When you use those knobs…it moves the reticle inside the scope to compensate.

    A tracking test is shooting at the center of a target but only using the elevation/windage knobs to hit four corners.

    EOTech Vudu Tracking Test
    EOTech Vudu Tracking Test

    7. First Focal Plane and Second Focal Plane

    This relates to the reticle…or the crosshairs of the scope.

    A second focal plane (SFP) reticle means that the reticle stays the same regardless of magnification.

    Strike Eagle 4x
    Strike Eagle 24x

    However, this means at different magnifications the hashmarks on your scope will mean different distances.

    Strike Eagle 24x
    Strike Eagle 4x

    A first focal plane (FFP) reticle changes with magnification…

    EOTech Vudu 5x
    EOTech Vudu 5x

    But the hashmarks will means the same distance at any magnification.

    EOTech Vudu 25x
    EOTech Vudu 25x

    FFP scopes are typically more expensive…but I like these for longer range shooting since you can make adjustments to your scope windage/elevation knobs at any magnification.

    And it’s easier to communicate with a spotter.

    Want to go more in-depth in FFP vs SFP? Check out our guide to first focal plane and second focal plane scopes. 

    8. Long Range Scope

    I’m kind of making this up…but I’m considering a long range scope to have magnification of around 5x-25x.

    That number sometimes afterwards like 5-25×50 is the objective lens diameter (lens closest to the target).  Bigger number means the scope lets in more light.

    This is subjective but I’ve found most people like this range for longer range shooting and better target identification.

    I’m also including some lower ranges like 4-16x for those who prefer that instead.

    Now…let’s get on to our best long range rifle scopes!

    1. Vortex Strike Eagle 4-24×50

    BUDGET PICK
    330
    at EuroOptic

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    My most affordable pick is the Strike Eagle 4-24x.

    Vortex Strike Eagle 4-24x
    Vortex Strike Eagle 4-24x

    Vortex’s Strike Eagle line has some of the best bang-for-the-buck optics…like their 1-6x which I used for years in rifle competitions (Best 1-6x Scopes).

    Plus there’s the famous Vortex warranty which covers it for a lifetime…and is fully transferable.

    Now onto the scope…

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    Now…it’s pretty hard to get a good picture of the glass and reticle through a camera.  It’s almost always the case that real life is better than my pictures.

    And tons of what I’m going to say is subjective.

    But the Strike Eagle has decent glass for the price.

    Here I am aiming at a 600 yard full-sized IPSC torso target.

    600 Yards at Angeles Range
    600 Yards at Angeles Range

    At 24x magnification.

    Strike Eagle 4x
    Strike Eagle 24x

    It’s a second focal plane (SFP) and the hash marks on the EBR-4 reticle are at a good thickness to be useful at both 4x…and 24x.

    Strike Eagle 24x
    Strike Eagle 4x

    However I don’t like how the hash marks start at 4 MOA from the center.  This makes it a little harder to make adjustments on the knobs when you’re off by less than 4 MOA.

    EBR-4 Reticle
    EBR-4 Reticle

    There’s some slight distortion at the sides but it only becomes apparent at max magnification.

    A little like the Strike Eagle 1-6x which starts to not look great at 6x.

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Eye relief is at a standard 3.5 inches so you’re ok unless you’re shooting the most magnum of rounds.

    Strike Eagle 4-24x Mounted
    Strike Eagle 4-24x Mounted

    Eye box was ok too…but you’re going to have to be a little more meticulous on getting to it when you’re fully magnified.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Mine was a tester model from Vortex…but wow was the elevation hard to turn!

    Strike Eagle Knobs
    Strike Eagle Knobs

    I had to put on gloves to fully turn then when zeroing since they came in very far off for my setup.

    The feel of the knobs?

    A little sticky combined with the hardness.  Plus they were a little smaller than I personally like.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Stiff too…but not like the elevation.

    It’s next to the illumination knob so it’s a little hard to turn.

    I also prefer numbers or another type of visual indicator for distance…but the Strike Eagle starts off with 20 and then some differently spaced hash marks until infinite.

    Strike Eagle Magnification Ring
    Strike Eagle Magnification Ring

    Magnification ring was nice and smooth but also on the heavier side…you’re not going to be switching magnifications quickly.

    Fit & Feel

    Overall fit and feel is good.  It’s still a Vortex after all.

    Here’s a quick video of me going over the scope:

    Mounting

    I went with 30mm Warne Extended Mount which were easy to install and held zero even when I was taking the scope on and off a couple times.

    Tracking Test

    How did it go?

    It was one of my first tests so I made sure to reconfirm zero…that’s why there’s two holes in the center.

    Strike Eagle Tracking Test
    Strike Eagle Tracking Test

    This was done at 100 yards with my DTA SRS which is at least a half-MOA rifle (will shoot under 1/2 an inch at 100 yards).

    Overall very good…all the shots are within the red squares.

    Other Features

    Comes with an illuminated reticle…but it goes from 0-11 without OFF positions next to each number.

    It works.

    Keep in mind that illuminated reticles are not daylight bright…you use them during dusk or dawn.

    Summary

    Great entry point long range scope with decent glass…despite some side distortion at higher magnifications, stiff knobs, and not my personal favorite reticle.

    2. Vortex Viper PST II 5-25×50

    899
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    The Viper PST II is definitely clearer than the Strike Eagle.

    Vortex Viper PST II 5-25x
    Vortex Viper PST II 5-25x

    It’s like when I moved up from the Strike Eagle 1-6x to the PST II 1-6x for my current competition rifle.

    F1 Firearms Upper with Vortex PST II
    F1 Firearms Upper with Vortex PST II

    Let’s start with 5x magnification of its EBR-2C reticle…

    Vortex Viper PST II 5x
    Vortex Viper PST II 5x

    It’s a little thin so you might lose it depending on your target and background.

    But since it is first focal plane (FFP)…at 25x the reticle gets grows.

    Vortex Viper PST II 25x
    Vortex Viper PST II 25x

    The reticle is Vortex’s EBR-2C and it’s a little busy for me.

    EBR-2C Reticle
    EBR-2C Reticle

    But I totally get that it’s for holdovers, ranging, and windage corrections.  I’m not there yet in my long range shooting skills so it might very well be the best thing ever.

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Vortex Viper PST II Mounted
    Vortex Viper PST II Mounted

    Eye relief is listed at 3.4 inches but feels better maybe since the glass is more premium.

    Eyebox is also more forgiving compared to the Strike Eagle.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Now we’re talking!

    I’m a snob for nice knobs.

    Viper PST II Knobs
    Viper PST II Knobs

    And the PST II has got them…crisp clicks with the perfect amount of resistance…and audible too.

    There’s zero stop (so you can’t dial it under sight-in zero) and some fiber optic for a more visual confirmation.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Finally…the PST II has numbers for parallax.  They matched up nicely too with the ranges I shot.  Also smooth to adjust.

    Magnification was also easy to adjust with a nice quality feel.

    Viper PST II Magnification Ring
    Viper PST II Magnification Ring

    Fit & Feel

    Finish is identical to the Strike Eagle but the PST II is a little longer…plus with all the nicer amenities missing on the Strike Eagle.

    Take a look at the nice tactile windage/elevation adjustments.

    Vortex Viper PST II 5-25x
    Vortex Viper PST II 5-25x

    Here’s a quick video:

    Mounting

    I went with a Midwest Industries 30mm Quick Disconnect Mount which might be my favorite so far.

    Easy to install and super easy to take on/off…with good zeroing.

    My PST II came with Vortex Cantilever Mounts…but it didn’t fit my DTA rails although were fine on my mil-spec AR-15 receivers.

    Vortex Cantilever Mounts
    Vortex Cantilever Mounts

    Tracking Test

    I lost track of stuff here…

    Vortex PST II Tracking Test
    Vortex PST II Tracking Test

    So you can see where I goofed with only going halfway to the right direction.

    It’s a decent test although I would have liked to see the top two segments be inside the red.

    Other Features

    Comes with illuminated reticle AND with off buttons next to each level.

    Summary

    The PST II is what I would have wanted to fix up in the Strike Eagle…and Vortex has done it.

    It’s what I used the most at a long range event.

    HBH Going Long Distance
    HBH Going Long Distance

    To hit 1000 and 1250 yards.

    HBH 1000 and 1250 Yards
    HBH 1000 and 1250 Yards

    Of course it’s at more of a premium.

    But if you’re ready to seriously go after 1000+ shots you can’t do wrong with the Viper.

    899
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons
    Upgraded Pick
    899
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    3. Leupold VX3i LRP 8.5-25×50

    ALSO DECENT
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Boom!  Now we’re onto another well known company in the scope game…Leupold with their LRP 8.5-25x.

    Leupold VX3i LRP 8.5-25x
    Leupold VX3i LRP 8.5-25x

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    Clarity is good…

    Leupold LRP 8.5x
    Leupold LRP 8.5x

    Though at higher magnifications it was hard to get a well-lit picture.

    Leupold LRP 25x
    Leupold LRP 25x

    Reticle is second focal plane but very usable at all magnifications.

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    I’m really bummed to say it but I didn’t like it as much as even the Strike Eagle (at half the price) in terms of eye relief and eye box.

    Eye relief was quite good with 5.3 in at low magnifications and 3.7 at high.  You can see how much more forward it is on my rail.

    Leupold LRP Mounted
    Leupold LRP Mounted

    It was hard to get a well-lit picture since the eye box was not as forgiving.

    Especially at high magnification I found my eyes getting fatigued during the zeroing and tracking test.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Leupold LRP Knobs
    Leupold LRP Knobs

    The clicks are pretty large in terms of travel distance…you’re going to need to turn a lot more for each mil of adjustment.

    But they felt nice in squishy but good kind of way.  Audible but not too loud either.

    Windage (left to right) is capped on the right side.

    I personally don’t like that since it makes it harder to adjust on the fly…but it protects your zero if you’re moving around and most of the time you’re probably holding for wind anyways.

    Parallax & Magnification

    The parallax knob is a series of different sized dots ending with an infinite sign.  I like numbers better but I’m glad at least there’s a visual confirmation of roughly where you are (instead of just hash marks)

    The magnification ring has an integrated throw lever which makes it very easy to change magnifications.

    Leupold LRP Magnification Ring
    Leupold LRP Magnification Ring

    Fit & Feel

    Overall it still looks and feels quality and is pretty light for its stats.

    Mounting

    Leupold VX3i LRP 8.5-25x
    Leupold VX3i LRP 8.5-25x

    I used a Leupold cantilever single piece mount which was easy to install but I wish there was a different knob on the base so I could more easily use my torque wrench.

    Tracking Test

    Leupold LRP Tracking Test
    Leupold LRP Tracking Test

    This one wasn’t the best one even after taking out that messup at the top left square.

    Summary

    Not my favorite at the price point.  I would say get the Strike Eagle or up it a little to get the PST II or some of the other ones down the list.

    Gave me some eye fatigue due to the eye box despite pretty good eye relief.

    4. Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56

    RUNNER UP
    2049
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Redemption!  I really like Leupold’s Mark 5HD scope.

    Leupold Mark 5HD
    Leupold Mark 5HD

    But then again…I might just like nice things.  This is one of Leupold’s newest creations and comes in over $2000.

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    Great glass clarity at all magnifications.  I got the version with the CCH reticle but there’s plenty of choices.

    Leupold CCH Reticle
    Leupold CCH Reticle

    Here it is at 5x…I like how the three skinny triangles bring your eyes toward the center.  The reticle is a little thin at 5x but if you’re using this…you’re probably zoomed in at least a little.

    Leupold Mark 5HD 5x
    Leupold Mark 5HD 5x

    Here it is at 25x magnification.

    Leupold Mark 5HD 25x
    Leupold Mark 5HD 25x

    It’s a lot of stuff that hunters and military will use for wind and moving target holds.  Plus the CCH reticle is optimized at 12-16x magnification for night vision and thermal attachments.

    More than I need for my purposes!

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Listed at 3.6 inch for 25x and 3.8 inch for 5x…so it’s pretty standard.  You can see it’s actually a little closer to my eyes when mounted than other scopes.

    Leupold Mark 5HD Mounted
    Leupold Mark 5HD Mounted

    Eye box is forgiving and a joy to look through when coupled with the great glass and 56mm objective lens that lets in a lot of light compared to the 50mm’s from before.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Leupold Mark 5HD Turrets
    Leupold Mark 5HD Turrets

    There’s a nice locking button that protrudes out for zero stop.  That mechanism also disappears after one full turn…and then a metal pin on top comes out after 2 full turns.

    This is a scope that’s made for low light use when you have to use tactile indicators for zero.

    Turning the turret knobs is soft/easy and there’s a good audible click.

    Windage is covered which is ok since it’s coupled with the CCH reticle that helps a lot with holdovers.

    Mark 5HD Offset Windage
    Mark 5HD Offset Windage

    The indicator for windage is not centered…but instead more at the top.  It does make it easier to see but is different from almost all other scopes…so it takes some getting used to.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Parallax was very close to the actual distances and I like the numbered graduations.

    Leupold Mark 5HD Magnification Ring
    Leupold Mark 5HD Magnification Ring

    And it comes with an integrated throw lever that makes it easy to transition the entire zoom spectrum.

    Fit & Feel

    Very quality and actually lighter than I thought for all the features and the bigger tube/objective lens.

    Mounting

    Leupold Mark 5HD
    Leupold Mark 5HD

    I used the very high 34mm rings from Leupold which worked better on my DTA SRS.  However one set of the rings had a very sticky screw that needed a little more oomph to manipulate.

    I still like going with single piece mounts since I take my scopes on and off a lot and they hold zeros better.

    Tracking Test

    Tracking was dead on even though the zero shifted a little from taking the rings on and off.

    Leupold Mark 5HD Tracking Test
    Leupold Mark 5HD Tracking Test

    Summary

    Overall super clear glass and extra features built into the great windage/elevation knobs.

    You might choose a more “normal” reticle like their TMR since the CCH is built for movers and windage holds.

    Lives up to the Leupold name.

    5. Burris XTR II 5-25×50

    BEST AROUND $1000
    869
    at Optics Planet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    The Burris XTR II is a pretty good deal for what you get coming in around $1000.

    Burris XTR II 5-25x
    Burris XTR II 5-25x

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    This bad boy comes with very decent glass and one of my favorite reticles…the SCR Mil which is an enhanced “normal” reticle.

    Burris SCR Mil
    Burris SCR Mil

    Check it out at 25x which is very usable and has good graduations for both windage and elevation holds.

    Burris XTR II 25x
    Burris XTR II 25x

    While still being useful at 5x, especially with the 3 thicker lines drawing your eyes into the center.

    Burris XTR II 5x
    Burris XTR II 5x

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Eye relief is listed at a good 4.24 and 3.5 inches although the eye box did not feel very forgiving.

    Mounted Burris XTR II
    Mounted Burris XTR II

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    The turrets/knobs were a little stiffer than I would have liked…but were plenty tactile.

    Burris XTR II Knobs
    Burris XTR II Knobs

    And very personal knock…but I don’t like the harder-to-read-than-needed font for the numbers.  And the inclusion of +10 numbers on elevation above the regular numbers makes it very busy.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Parallax is easy to adjust and has numbers.

    Plus illumination goes from 1 through 11 with each one next to an off.

    Fit & Feel

    Overall very nicely built.

    Check out the turrets in action:

    Mounting

    I used the Burris PEPR mount which is great for the money but is heavy.  However it does include Picatinny rails for offset red dots.

    Burris XTR II 5-25x
    Burris XTR II 5-25x

    Tracking Test

    Burris XTR II Tracking Test
    Burris XTR II Tracking Test

    Tracking was ok and somehow I was shooting not that great.

    Summary

    A good option if you’re trying to stay under $1000 with good glass and can live with the slightly less than ideal eye box and stiff/busy turrets.

    6. Steiner PX4i 4-16×56

    RUNNER UP $1000
    960
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Let’s get some German glass up in here with the Steiner PX4i.

    Steiner P4Xi 4-16x
    Steiner P4Xi 4-16x

    I love their 1-4x scope and their 4-16x is one of the nicest pieces of glass I’ve had the pleasure to looking through.

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    Since it’s less magnification, a smaller ratio (4-16x vs 5-25x), 56mm objective lens…AND it’s Steiner…the glass is super clear and bright.

    Coupled with their SCR reticle which was developed for precision use…you’ll be ready for any long range task.

    Steiner SCR Reticle
    Steiner SCR Reticle

    Here it is at 16x magnification.  This is definitely one of those cases where the picture does not do the actual optic justice.

    Steiner P4Xi 16x
    Steiner P4Xi 16x

    And at 4x.  Thing but usable especially with the draw-in sides.

    Steiner P4Xi 4x
    Steiner P4Xi 4x

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Eye relief is a generous 4 inch and eye box is very forgiving.

    Steiner P4Xi Mounted
    Steiner P4Xi Mounted

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Great feeling turrets…stiffer in a good way and more tactile than others.  Can definitely be used at night.

    Steiner P4Xi Knobs
    Steiner P4Xi Knobs

    Plus that white circle turns green when you pass one full rotation.

    Windage is exposed and is slightly easier to turn but same great quality feeling.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Parallax starts at 50 and uses a volume-like control to denote distance.  Makes sense and I can probably get used to it as opposed to numbers.

    Magnification ring feels quality and decently easy to turn with about 2 large cranks to reach min and max.

    Fit & Feel

    Looks and feels great.  It’s decently short with a thicker tube (34mm) and larger objective lens (56mm).

    Mounting

    The Steiner mount is kick-ass!

    Steiner P4Xi 4-16x
    Steiner P4Xi 4-16x

    Super quality feeling and comes with a built-in bubble level.

    Tracking Test

    Pretty consistent here although I would have liked all of them to be on the left edge like the zero-ing shots.

    Steiner P4xi Tracking Test
    Steiner P4xi Tracking Test

    Summary

    If you’re looking for a super quality feeling and looking optic that’s battle-tested…you can’t go wrong with this Steiner.

    Plus if you’re worried about mirage the 4-16x is perfect.

    7. EOTech Vudu 5-25×56

    BEST COMPACT SCOPE
    1789
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    EOTech’s foray into long distance gives us the Vudu 5-25x.

    EOTech Vudu 5-25x
    EOTech Vudu 5-25x

    We love our EOTech Holographic Sights and this super short scope is perfect if you’re looking to rock night vision or thermal devices on your rifle.

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    You’re probably giving something up by going so short…check it out below 4th from the left.

    Tested Long Range Scopes
    Tested Long Range Scopes

    But so far I can’t tell because the glass is great.

    It uses a pretty standard MRAD reticle.

    EOTech Vudu 25x
    EOTech Vudu 25x

    That’s great at both 5 and 25x.

    EOTech Vudu 5x
    EOTech Vudu 5x

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Eye relief is listed at 3.6 inches so you’re not bashing your eye with magnums.

    EOTech Vudu Mounted
    EOTech Vudu Mounted

    And eye box wasn’t a problem for me to get a nice sight picture at any magnification.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    A nice but also kind of annoying feature is the lock feature on the elevation turret.

    EOTech Vudu Knobs
    EOTech Vudu Knobs

    You’ve got to remember to pull the turret up in order to turn it…and there’s not much of an indicator when it’s on or off.

    However turns are nice and solid with an audible quality click.  Windage is capped.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Parallax has numbers which I appreciate and dead-on with my 100 and 600 yard known distances.

    EOTech Vudu Magnification Ring
    EOTech Vudu Magnification Ring

    Magnification is super easy to turn…but it’s the entire rear of the scope so if you have attached scope caps…it’s not going to be fun.  Might be why it comes with clear bungee covers.

    Fit & Feel

    Feels super quality in its compact form.

    Here’s everything in action:

    Mounting

    Has a 34mm tube and I used my go-to Aero Precision Lightweight mounts to keep everything together.

    Tracking Test

    Pretty good results here and I’m glad I’m shooting a little better than the previous!

    EOTech Vudu Tracking Test
    EOTech Vudu Tracking Test

    Summary

    The go-to if you want something super short and compact.  Either just because or if you need to attach some serious electronics to the end of it.

    8. Primary Arms 6-30×56

    BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
    1499
    at Primary Arms

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Wait…PA is on the list?

    Primary Arms 6-30x Platinum
    Primary Arms 6-30x PLx

    Well turns out they don’t just make very bang-for-the-buck scopes (Best 1-6x Scopes), but also have entered the premium area with their Japanese glass-ed PLx 6-30x.

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    Glass is very clear and bright with its 56mm objective lens.

    However…I’m not in love with its DEKA Mil reticle.

    DEKA Reticle
    DEKA Reticle

    It’s very usable at 6x.

    Primary Arms 6x
    Primary Arms 6x

    But then becomes kind of big at 30x.

    Primary Arms 30x
    Primary Arms 30x

    If you’re aiming at torso sized targets it’s fine but anything smaller might be hard with those giant futurist hash marks.  The chevron center also takes some getting used to.

    *Update*: Looks like other people like me have been heard…there’s no more DEKA reticle.

    Much bigger fan of the Athena version.

    Primary Arms Athena Reticle
    Primary Arms Athena Reticle

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Eye relief is 3.3 inch to 4 inch so it’s pretty normal.

    Primary Arms Platinum 6-30x Mounted
    Primary Arms 6-30x Mounted

    I found the eye box to be pretty forgiving too even at the max 30 magnification.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Very nice big knob with quality subdued-sound clicks.

    Primary Arms 6-30x Platinum Knobs
    Primary Arms 6-30x Knobs

    Windage turrets are slightly stiffer but have the same feel quality.

    Parallax & Magnification

    Parallax is a little hidden with the illumination knobs (yes, they have an off next to each setting) but has numbers that are graduated nicely.  Also on the dot with my known distances of 100 and 600 yards.

    Magnification ring has a smaller integrated fin that helps a lot with adjustment.

    Fit & Feel

    Good heft and quality finish.  PA is really stepping up their game.

    Mounting

    Primary Arms 6-30x Platinum
    Primary Arms 6-30x

    Again I went with an Aero Precision Lightweight mount but if you purchase from PA you’ll usually get a free mount too.

    Tracking Test

    Pretty good!

    Primary Arms 6-30x Tracking Test
    Primary Arms 6-30x Tracking Test

    Summary

    If you want some quality Japanese glass on a scope that could probably cost 2x what it does now…try the PLx out.

    It has Primary Arms’ lifetime warranty like all their other stuff.

    9. Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25×56

    BEST TOP-OF-THE-LINE PICK
    3200
    at EuroOptic

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Ooh…the big boy S&B PMII is here.

    Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x
    Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x

    Almost universally known as the best of the best…it’s used by some of the top police and military units (hence the PM) in the world.

    It’s also around $3000.

    Glass Clarity & Reticle

    Subjectively the best to me and my buddies who rock them.  Closest would be Steiner and US Optics.

    There’s also tons of reticles to choose from…I just happen to have the H2CMR which is close to a basic Mil with circles that make it easy to count how much to hold/correct.

    H2CMR Reticle
    H2CMR Reticle

    The first focal plane (FFP) reticle is thin but usable at 5x.

    Schmidt & Bender PMII 5x
    Schmidt & Bender PMII 5x

    But shines at 25x.

    Schmidt & Bender PMII 25x
    Schmidt & Bender PMII 25x

    Normally it’s pretty hard to get a well-lit picture at max magnification…but it was definitely easier with the PMII.

    Also no side distortion!

    Eye Relief & Eye Box

    Schmidt & Bender PMII Mounted
    Schmidt & Bender PMII Mounted

    Eye relief is average with 3.5 inches but eye box is pretty forgiving even at 25x.  That also helps in getting a nice picture.

    Elevation & Windage Knobs

    Schmidt & Bender PMII Turrets
    Schmidt & Bender PMII Turrets

    I’ve cranked on these since 2012 and they are the same since the day I got them…crisp with the perfect amount of resistance.  Also down to .1 mrad per click for refined.

    Also the white open rectangles at the top of the elevation ring change to orange after one full rotation.  Oh…and of course zero stop too.

    Windage is exposed and has the same feeling as elevation.

    Parallax & Magnification

    The giant parallax knob is super smooth and uninhibited by an illumination lever since there’s very few times where it’s actually useful.  Also dead on for my known distances.

    Magnification ring is smooth and easy to use.  Plus there’s a nice little “sharks-fin” attachment you can get for a better throw.

    Schmidt & Bender PMII Magnification
    Schmidt & Bender PMII Magnification

    Fit & Feel

    Tons of use and I’m only starting to see some scuff marks at the edges of the turrets.  If it’s good enough for USMC sniper teams…it’s good enough for me.

    Mounting

    Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x
    Schmidt & Bender PMII 5-25x

    I use a Larue OBR mount which has kept within .5 MOA over countless on and off across multiple rifles.  This setup is my go-to for AR-15 accuracy tests so it’s been…around.

    Tracking Test

    Pretty good…all within the red boxes.  Although I must admit I’m SO DONE with tracking tests.

    Schmidt & Bender PMII Tracking Test
    Schmidt & Bender PMII Tracking Test

    Summary

    If you want my personal best of the best…here it is.  Hands-down.

    EDITOR'S PICK
    3200
    at EuroOptic

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    What’s your take on the PMII if price were no object?

    Readers' Ratings

    4.99/5 (3752)

    Your Rating?

    Honorable Mentions

    This is only a slice of what’s out there…and I intend to keep testing and updating!

    Here’s some of my other favorites I’ve tried but don’t have in hand for a more in-dpeth review:

    Vortex Razor HD Gen II 4.5-27×56 FFP

    Most Versatile
    2499
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Nightforce ATACR 5-25×56

    Nightforce is another manufacturer known for high-quality glass…and the ATACR is its premier line.  I have and love their NXS line but mine is only 2.5-10x.  I really want to try their 5-25x.

    2300
    at EuroOptic

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    U.S. Optics B-25 5-25x

    The U.S. Optics B-25 has a simple, sleek aesthetic, and that simplicity extends to its controls.  

    Plus it’s one of the few scopes to rival Schmidt & Bender in glass quality.

    3022
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Leupold Mark 8 3.5-25×56 M5B2 Illuminated Front Focal

    Best Illuminated Reticle Scope
    4700
    at Brownells

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Conclusion

    BLM Precision Shooting
    BLM Precision Shooting

    To recap…

    My recommended budget optic for those of you entering the long range game is the Strike Eagle 4-24x.

    Most Affordable
    330
    at EuroOptic

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    If you want to step it up a little…get the Viper PST II 5-25x.

    Upgraded Pick
    899
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    If you want to up your game a little more with Leupold…

    2049
    at OpticsPlanet

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Want super clear German glass and not need the full 5-25x magnification?

    Clearest Glass
    960
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Need to go short and add in some night vision or thermal…without losing much in performance?

    Shortest 5-25x
    1789
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    How about some Japanese glass from the most worth-it optics manufacturer?

    Best Bang-For-The-Buck
    1499
    at Primary Arms

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Or…simply want the best of the best?

    EDITOR'S PICK
    3200
    at EuroOptic

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    That does it for me for now.  Let me know what other scopes I’ve missed so I can try to get them for Round 2!

    If yIf you’re looking for something strictly AR-15…our Best AR-15 Optics covers everything imaginable.  Or if you’re into hunting, scout scopes, prisms or more…check out our overall Best Rifle Scopes article.

    A Couple AR-15 Optics
    A Couple AR-15 Optics

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    98 Leave a Reply

    • Commenter Avatar
      Hugo Blanco

      Brother, great article.

      September 13, 2023 8:18 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Steve Marley

      Please check out the Vortex 5-25x56 Strike Eagle next time around

      December 2, 2022 2:14 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Rudy Torres

      Interesting on how the Vortex marketing machine has tainted the review objectivity of Pew Pew Tactical... There are a few scopes missing from your list and should be reviewed (and added to the list). Delta Optical HD Stryker 4.5-30x36 FFP and 5-50x56 FFP (LRD-1T Reticle) can hang and match the features, glass and capabilities of all the Vortex offerings (and beat some of them hands-down), as well as the others listed in the top ten (with a better price point). There's the Meopta Optika6 5-30x56 RD FFP, which can also hang and match with the top ten listed. And not to be missed Athlon Optics, with its Cronus, Ares and Midas line up that should also be on that list. It's sad when marketing money has such biased influence over actual real reviews and comparisons. I hope this list is updated appropriately soon with more the world's scopes (and their in-depth reviews) that are better or as good as Vortex.

      November 17, 2022 6:40 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Dan

      It appears to me to be a Vortex bias. The research appears to be an opinion only, probably to sell Vortex Scopes. It seems very unlikely that Vortex could be that superior to Leupold, Zeiss, Schmidt and Bender or Swarovski, that have been the best scopes for decades. I have several brands of scopes and have shot with a variety of other scopes and IMHO it is hard to beat Leupold.

      October 9, 2022 7:19 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Nico

      Zeiss V4 6x24x50?

      September 30, 2022 12:02 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      BubbaLo7

      Well you missed 4 of my Favorites.. TRACT TORIC 4.5-30x56 FFP, Delta Stryker HD 4.5-30x56 FFP. and Valdada 5.8-40x56 Crusader and Delta Stryker 5-50x56 SFP.. and some dont cost as much as several of the ones you mention that I had are are not near as good as the Tract Toric and Delta Sytryker HD.
      And you could also include VALDADA, March and Kahles. Ive owned all of these except a NightForce.

      February 3, 2022 7:36 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Philip

      KAHLES K624I

      January 20, 2022 7:05 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Walter. Loukota

      Long range scopes. Round two,
      BURRIS Eliminator and a Sig scope and rangefinder combos.
      How easily are they to operate in the field?

      August 27, 2021 4:13 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      David Lewis

      I enjoyed your article....check out the Valdada scopes which may even beat Schmidt & Bender.

      July 9, 2021 1:33 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        BubbaLo7

        I own the Valdada Crusader 40mm 5.8-40x56 and it sure beats the S&B.

        February 3, 2022 7:38 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Derek bones wagner

      What about this brand called Horus

      June 20, 2021 7:29 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Joe H

      On my .338 Lapua I use a nightforce atacr 5-25x56 f1 with tremor 3 reticle. With a scope Level by Accuracy 1st (can't say enough great stuff about the military sniper school Todd runs) and an angle degree indicator. Scope Mount is a LaRue Tactical LT845 QD that allows my SilencerCo SWR Radius Three Laser Rangefinder to be mounted above the scope (allowing me to acquire distance to target while staying on scope). Always worked well for me to 1760 and longer in every EXTREAME environment you can imagine.

      April 15, 2021 9:56 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        J

        Not a sniper school, been to both, one is a gentleman's course one is not.

        January 1, 2022 8:33 am
        • Commenter Avatar
          BubbaLo7

          so out of all you have been to which did you the most good at sniper/long range shooting?

          February 3, 2022 7:52 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        BubbaLo7

        Its hard to beat the Accuracy 1st Anti-Cant scope Level with Ceramic Ball for sure..I love mine. I just own 2 and they are much better than the water Bubble Level rigs.

        February 3, 2022 7:43 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Clyde

      If you can’t see the target you can’t hit it

      March 21, 2021 5:29 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        William

        Don't tell that to the boys with the howitzers! They'll call you....

        November 15, 2021 10:18 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      JFlag

      I will not buy a Leupold based on how they handled a warranty for me in the past. It was a lower cost scope for my sons first gun and based on it being lower cost they would not replace it, only repair it and after the 3rd trip back I threw it in the trash can. I'm sure they make some good products but based on how that situation was handled, I will NEVER know.

      November 24, 2020 6:50 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Bill

        Oh man. I've got a lower cost Leupold that could never hold zero from day one and hope to NOT repeat your experience. Maybe they just aren't aren't as good as everyone thinks.

        July 18, 2021 8:17 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      Whpnspur

      I would love to see a review of SWFA scopes. If you’re talking best bang for the buck, they should be on the list.

      November 13, 2020 1:38 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Vince

        Second that.

        November 30, 2020 6:06 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Jon

      9 best long range rifle scopes? Where's Tangent Theta? Minox? Kahles? ZCO? Or if you're talking hunting... Zeiss? Swaro?

      The only list leupold, vortex and Burris should be on are budget scope lists.

      October 20, 2020 8:51 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        David, PPT Editor

        We have a very large update to this article coming soon!

        October 20, 2020 9:02 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Brian Small

        Agree would have to say Zeiss and Swarovski and Nightforce all some of the top notch scopes for long term lasting and quality but think Steiner makes some of best military rifle scopes and very tough with extreme good glass

        June 1, 2021 9:08 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Guy Moore

      My friend has a 6.5 CM, A10, 24" HBAR to use for intermediate ranges? I know, but it's what he wanted. Anyway, would a Primary Arms 1-6x24 SFP Gen III Illuminated ACSS work? It's listed for a .308 and I'm not certain how that would translate to a 6.5 CM. He wants it for sub 500yd. shooting.

      July 8, 2020 5:47 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Brian

        1-6 imho might be a bit lite for 500yds. depends on glass quality. i use a bugbuster 3-9x32 ($80) on my ar, and 9 power is really pushing it at 500yds. all depends on the quality of the glass. i have a 6-24 SFP that cost $139 i use on my Savage 10 in .308 out to 1000yds. and i've used a schmidt & bender ($3200) 5-25 on a .300 winmag from 1000 yds out to 1600 yds. NO comparison between them. the SB at 12 power all the way to 1600. 1000 yds with the chinese scope at 24 power, the SB is miles upon miles clearer, but also 23 times the cost. Clarity of glass, amount of elevation avail are better than magnification. but for 500 yds, almost anything will get you there. 6.5 cm is still supersonic. if the glass is really, really good you won't use the magnification so much. which gives you a wider field of view and that's always good. the 6.5 shoots flatter, has longer range, and has better BC (ballistic coefficient) than the .308.

        October 6, 2020 10:39 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Chris Gschwind

      Thank you for the article it was very helpful. I was wondering if you had anything thoughts on the Vortex Diamondback 6-24x50mm and its capability for long range.

      June 24, 2020 7:06 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Javier Antonio Quinones Ortiz

      Never assume that your readers will be familiar with abbreviations. Always spell them the first time you use them in an article, then identify the term under its acronym.

      June 24, 2020 6:36 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bill Schoettler

      First time viewer, enjoyed the discussion and your approach. My compliments on a job well done. Been shooting (competition target as a youngster, hunting as an elder) since 1948. Looking forward to much more. Thanks for your efforts.

      May 24, 2020 7:42 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      WILLIAM ORR

      If I may,Id like to mention anothrer scope I have..Its my "GO TO SCOPE" .Its SWFA 3-15x42 SS.
      I grab this 223 Wylde AR15 & SWFA Super Sniper scope 1st when there is a problem..I bought the scope used at a pawn shop for $550.00..when I first got into long range shooting.At the time it was the most expensive scope I'd ever purchased..It is as reliable as Gold.

      February 7, 2020 2:06 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      WILLIAM ORR

      Ive got a few Im proud of you might check out.. The Athlon Cronus BTR 4.5-29x56 and the Valdada TX Raider are my best so far...And for a lower price thats really good glass is fairly new kid on the block..its the Arken EP4 6-24x50 and the Primary Arms GOLD GLX 6-24x50.. I especially like the turrets on the GLX Primary Arms. You did a great review.I enjoyed it.Thanks

      February 7, 2020 1:29 pm