Reaching out to touch a target at extreme distances requires more than just skill and a precision rifle; it demands an optic that can deliver uncompromising clarity, reliable tracking, and unwavering durability. The right long-range scope is the critical link between you and a successful shot, whether you’re competing in PRS matches, hunting in open terrain, or pushing the limits of your own marksmanship. With so many high-performance models on the market, selecting the perfect one for your needs can be a daunting task.
Our team has rigorously tested and evaluated the top contenders in the long-range optics field to provide you with a clear, authoritative guide. We’ve assessed optical performance, turret feel, reticle utility, and overall build quality under demanding conditions. This roundup is designed to cut through the noise and help you identify the best long-range rifle scope to meet your specific requirements and budget.
The Best Long-Range Rifle Scopes for Precision Shooting
- Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP Riflescope
- Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope
- Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 M5C3 FFP Riflescope
- Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30×50 Riflescope
- Swarovski Optik X5 3.5-18×50 P Riflescope
- Trijicon Tenmile 4.5-30×56 FFP Riflescope
- Burris XTR III 5.5-30×56 SCR Mil FFP Riflescope
- Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56 APRS6 FFP IR Riflescope
Vortex Optics Razor HD Gen III 6-36×56 FFP Riflescope
The Vortex Razor HD Gen III is a powerhouse built for the most demanding long-range disciplines. Its massive 6-36x magnification range provides incredible flexibility, allowing you to spot your own shots at high power or engage closer targets quickly on the lower end. The optical system features high-density, extra-low dispersion glass that produces a stunningly bright and sharp image with exceptional color fidelity and resolution, even in challenging light.
This scope is engineered with a robust, one-piece 34mm tube that is nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed for complete waterproof and fogproof performance. The EBR-7D reticle is located in the first focal plane, ensuring subtensions remain accurate at every magnification. The tactile and precise CRS Zero-Reset turrets allow for easy return to zero after making elevation adjustments, a critical feature for competitive shooters.
Nightforce ATACR 7-35×56 F1 Riflescope
Nightforce is synonymous with rugged reliability, and the ATACR 7-35×56 F1 is the pinnacle of their engineering. Designed for professionals and serious long-range enthusiasts, this scope can handle heavy-recoiling cartridges and harsh environments without losing zero. The 7-35x magnification range is ideal for ultra-long-range target engagement and precision spotting.
Its ED glass significantly reduces chromatic aberration, providing a flat, high-contrast image across the entire field of view. The first focal plane DigIllum reticle offers a variety of useful aiming references that are consistently accurate at any zoom setting. Nightforce’s signature mechanics, including the smooth and positive turret adjustments, give you the confidence to make repeatable, accurate corrections shot after shot.
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25×56 M5C3 FFP Riflescope
The Leupold Mark 5HD stands out for its exceptional blend of high performance and relatively lightweight design. Weighing less than many competitors, it is a fantastic option for hunters who also need precision capabilities. The 5-25x magnification is versatile, covering most long-range scenarios effectively, and the 56mm objective lens gathers ample light for dawn and dusk use.
Leupold’s proprietary Twilight Max HD Light Management System enhances contrast and provides extra minutes of shooting light in low-light conditions. The turrets feature a locking and zero-stop mechanism that is both intuitive and secure. With multiple reticle options in the first focal plane, you can select the one that best fits your preferred method of holdovers and windage correction.
Zeiss Conquest V6 5-30×50 Riflescope
German optics giant Zeiss brings its legendary glass quality to the long-range market with the Conquest V6. The 5-30×50 configuration offers a wide magnification range in a package that remains relatively compact. The image quality is simply outstanding, with brilliant clarity, true color representation, and a very wide field of view on lower powers for fast acquisition.
This scope is built on a sturdy 34mm main tube and is filled with argon gas for reliable performance in all weather conditions. The ASV turret system provides both an audible and tactile click for precise adjustments, and the integrated zero-stop allows for a quick return to your baseline setting. It’s a scope that balances hunting-friendly ergonomics with serious long-range features.
Swarovski Optik X5 3.5-18×50 P Riflescope
The Swarovski X5 may have a slightly more conservative top-end magnification than others on this list, but it more than compensates with sheer optical brilliance and a versatile magnification range. The 3.5-18x is perfectly suited for a wide variety of long-range hunting applications. The image is exceptionally bright and sharp, with edge-to-edge clarity that is difficult to match.
Swarovski’s proprietary fluoride-containing glass and sophisticated coatings minimize light loss and internal reflections. The turret system is highly advanced, featuring a push-button zero-set and a double-turn indicator that shows which revolution you are on. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand heavy recoil, making it a top choice for the discerning hunter who refuses to compromise on glass quality.
Trijicon Tenmile 4.5-30×56 FFP Riflescope
Trijicon, known for its bomb-proof combat optics, brings that same durability to the precision shooting world with the Tenmile series. The 4.5-30×56 model offers a great magnification range for both long-range hunting and target shooting. It provides excellent value, packing high-end features like a first focal plane illuminated reticle and precision-machined turrets.
The glass is multi-coated for high light transmission and a clear sight picture. The HSR reticle offers a clean, uncluttered center with detailed holdpoints in the lower quadrants. The turrets are low-profile, resettable, and include a zero-stop function. Built to survive hard use, the Tenmile is a solid, reliable workhorse for any shooter.
Burris XTR III 5.5-30×56 SCR Mil FFP Riflescope
The Burris XTR III is a standout in its price class, offering performance that challenges more expensive models. Its 5.5-30x magnification is ideal for precision rifle competitions and long-range varminting. The SCR Mil reticle is a popular choice for its simple, clean design that avoids unnecessary clutter while still providing all the necessary information for holds and windage.
This scope features a patented Crank-Knob elevation turret, allowing for rapid, multiple-revolution adjustments without needing to spin a traditional knob. The iDial system can be programmed for your specific ballistics, providing a custom turret solution. With its solid construction, clear glass, and innovative features, the XTR III represents a very smart investment for the performance-oriented shooter.
Athlon Optics Ares ETR 4.5-30×56 APRS6 FFP IR Riflescope
Athlon Optics has made a name for itself by delivering premium features at an accessible price point, and the Ares ETR is a prime example. This scope is built with Japanese glass and features a first focal plane illuminated reticle with the detailed APRS6 grid. The 4.5-30x magnification range is well-suited for everything from mid-range hunting to long-distance target shooting.
The mechanics are impressive, with a 34mm main tube, precision-ground glass, and turrets that offer both audible and tactile clicks. The zero-stop is easy to set, and the turrets lock to prevent accidental adjustments. For shooters looking to get into the long-range game without sacrificing critical features, the Ares ETR presents a very compelling option.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Long Range Rifle Scope
After spending a lot of time behind various optics, I have learned that choosing the right long range scope is about balancing a few key features with your budget and intended use. It is not just about picking the one with the highest magnification. Here is what I always look at first.
Magnification range is the starting point. For most long range work, I find a scope that starts somewhere between 4x and 6x on the low end and goes up to 25x or more is the sweet spot. This gives you a wide field of view for closer, unexpected targets and the high power you need to see your bullet impacts way out there. Remember, more magnification is not always better, as it can amplify heat mirage and make finding your target harder.
The objective lens size, paired with the tube diameter, dictates how much light gets to your eye. A larger objective lens, like a 56mm, can provide a brighter image in low light. However, it also means the scope sits higher on your rifle. I prefer a 34mm tube over a 30mm or 1-inch tube because it allows for more internal adjustment for elevation and windage, which is critical for those extreme distances.
Next, consider the reticle and turrets. First or Second Focal Plane (FFP or SFP)? For long range shooting, I will always choose an FFP reticle. Why? Because the reticle’s subtensions (like Mil-Dots or hash marks) remain accurate at any magnification. This is non-negotiable for making quick windage and holdover corrections. Your turrets should be tactile, repeatable, and have a zero-stop feature. A zero-stop lets you return to your original zero after dialing for a long shot without having to count clicks—a huge benefit under pressure.
Finally, think about glass quality and durability. You are paying for the clarity, color fidelity, and resolution of the glass. Better glass means you can see better in the critical first and last minutes of shooting light. For construction, look for scopes that are nitrogen purged and O-ring sealed to be fog-proof and waterproof. A rugged, one-piece tube is a must to withstand recoil and the occasional bump. When you are looking at the 8 best long range rifle scopes in 2025, you will see these features are common among all the top contenders.
FAQ
What magnification do I really need for long range shooting?
This depends on your target size and the typical distances you shoot. For precision shooting on steel or targets from 500 to 1000+ yards, I have found that a top-end magnification of 20x to 25x is more than sufficient. Going beyond 25x often just magnifies the atmospheric mirage, making the image shimmery and hard to see. A good starting point is a 5-25x or 4-16x scope.
Is First Focal Plane (FFP) really necessary?
For serious long range shooting, yes, I consider it essential. With an FFP reticle, your holdover points (the hash marks) are correct at every magnification level. This means if you need to hold 2 MILs for wind at 15x power, it is the same hold at 5x power. With a Second Focal Plane (SFP) scope, the reticle is only accurate at one specific magnification, usually the highest, which can lead to mistakes if you forget to zoom all the way in.
How important is a zero-stop turret?
Extremely important. After you sight in your rifle (find your “zero”), a zero-stop mechanism allows you to lock that setting. When you are dialing up 20 MILs of elevation for a 1000-yard shot, you can simply dial all the way back down until it stops, and you are right back at your zero. Without it, you have to carefully count clicks, which is slow and prone to error, especially in a stressful situation.
Can I use a hunting scope for long range precision?
You can, but there are compromises. Hunting scopes are often lighter and may have a wider field of view, which is great for moving animals. However, they typically lack the massive elevation adjustment range and robust, tactile turrets that a dedicated long range scope has. For occasional long shots on game, a good hunting scope works. For dedicated target or competition shooting, you will want a purpose-built long range optic.
What does “MOA” vs. “MIL” mean, and which should I choose?
MOA (Minute of Angle) and MIL (Milliradian) are just two different angular measurements used for adjusting your turrets and using your reticle for holdovers. One is not inherently more accurate than the other. MILs are a base-10 system, which some people find easier for mental math. MOA is a slightly finer measurement (1 MOA ≈ 1 inch at 100 yards, 1 MIL ≈ 3.6 inches at 100 yards). I suggest picking one system and sticking with it for all your gear. Most military and tactical shooters use MILs, but both are perfectly capable for making the list of the 8 best long range rifle scopes in 2025.