Choosing the right optic for your muzzleloader is a critical decision that can define your hunt. Unlike modern centerfire rifles, muzzleloaders produce a unique, heavy recoil impulse and are often used in low-light conditions. A scope not only needs to withstand the shock but also provide the clarity and reticle to make a clean, ethical shot when it counts the most.
With a vast array of options on the market, selecting the perfect scope can feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise to present eight of the best scopes specifically evaluated for their performance on a muzzleloading rifle. We’ve considered factors like durability, light transmission, eye relief, and specialized reticles to help you make an informed choice for your next black powder season.
Our Top Picks for Muzzleloader Scopes
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×40 Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
- Nikon INLINE XR 3-9×40 BDC 300 Riflescope
- UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
- Simmons 511039 3-9×32 Riflescope
- CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
- Tasco 3-9×40 Riflescope with Mil-Dot Reticle
Vortex Optics Crossfire II 3-9×40 Riflescope
The Vortex Crossfire II is a fan-favorite for a reason, offering exceptional value and performance that stands up to the demands of a muzzleloader. It features a fully multi-coated lens that increases light transmission, providing a bright and clear sight picture during the critical first and last minutes of shooting light. The dead-hold BDC reticle is excellent for longer shots where bullet drop becomes a factor.
Built with a single-piece tube crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum, this scope is both shockproof and rugged. A fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick reticle focusing, and the capped reset turrets are finger adjustable for easy zeroing. Backed by Vortex’s VIP unconditional lifetime warranty, this is a scope you can mount with confidence for many seasons to come.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9x40mm Riflescope
When you need a scope you can trust implicitly, the Leupold VX-Freedom is a top-tier choice. It’s built in the USA and features the Twilight Light Management System, which extends your shooting light by providing a superior image in the lowest light conditions. This is a significant advantage for hunters who often find game moving at dawn or dusk.
The VX-Freedom is rigorously tested for the punishing recoil of modern muzzleloaders, ensuring it will hold zero shot after shot. It’s also waterproof, fog-proof, and backed by the Leupold Golden Ring lifetime warranty. With its crisp dials and the versatile Duplex reticle, this scope offers legendary Leupold quality and reliability.
Nikon INLINE XR 3-9×40 BDC 300 Riflescope
Specifically engineered for the trajectory of a 300-grain saboted bullet, the Nikon INLINE XR is a purpose-built muzzleloader scope. Its BDC 300 reticle provides multiple aiming points calibrated for common muzzleloader ballistics, taking the guesswork out of holdover for shots beyond 100 yards. This specialized reticle can significantly increase your effective range.
Nikon’s optical system includes extra-high dispersion glass and a fully multicoated lens system for outstanding brightness and clarity. The spring-loaded instant zero-reset turrets make field adjustments simple. While Nikon has exited the riflescope market, this model remains a highly sought-after option for serious muzzleloader hunters.
UTG 3-12×44 30mm Compact Scope
For the hunter who wants more magnification for precise shot placement at extended ranges, the UTG 3-12×44 is an excellent option. The larger 30mm main tube allows for greater internal adjustment range and increased strength, while the 44mm objective lens gathers ample light. The true strength platform is built to handle heavy recoil, making it a robust choice for a muzzleloader.
It features an illuminated Mil-dot reticle, which is versatile for range estimation and holdover. The side wheel adjustable objective (AO) helps eliminate parallax and ensures a crisp image at any distance. With emerald-coated lenses and a sealed, nitrogen-filled body, this scope delivers high performance and reliability.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
The Bushnell Banner lives up to its name by offering exceptional performance in low-light conditions. The Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coated lenses are designed to provide a brighter sight picture when game is most active. This can make the difference between seeing a clear target or seeing nothing but a shadow.
It boasts a durable one-piece tube construction that is both waterproof and fog-proof. The Multi-X reticle is a simple, uncluttered design that allows for fast target acquisition. With its long eye relief and solid construction, the Banner series represents a great balance of performance and value for muzzleloader hunters.
Simmons 511039 3-9×32 Riflescope
The Simmons 3-9×32 is a classic, budget-friendly scope that has helped countless hunters fill their tags. Its compact and lightweight design keeps your muzzleloader easy to carry and handle in the woods. The Truplex reticle offers a clean sight picture for quick shots at closer ranges.
Featuring HydroShield lens coating that beads off moisture to maintain a clear view in rain or snow, and QTA (Quick Target Acquisition) eyepiece for fast focusing, this scope is built for practical hunting scenarios. It’s a waterproof and fog-proof scope that delivers reliable performance without a significant investment.
CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Illuminated Gun Scope
The CVLIFE scope offers an incredible set of features for hunters on a tight budget. The illuminated R4 reticle provides both a standard crosshair and an option for a bright red dot in the center, which can be very helpful in low-light backgrounds or dense cover. The 3-9×40 configuration is versatile for most hunting situations.
It includes a one-piece tube that is nitrogen-filled for fog-proof performance and is shockproof to withstand recoil. While it may not have the brand recognition of other scopes on this list, it provides a solid entry-level option for those who want an illuminated reticle without spending a lot.
Tasco 3-9×40 Riflescope with Mil-Dot Reticle
Tasco is a well-known name in optics, and this 3-9×40 model brings reliability and a useful Mil-Dot reticle to the table. The Mil-Dot system is excellent for experienced shooters who know how to use it for range estimation and windage or elevation holdover, adding a layer of precision to your shooting.
This scope is built to handle standard recoil and is both fog-proof and waterproof, ensuring it can handle adverse weather conditions in the field. With fully coated optics for a clear view and a simple, durable design, the Tasco 3-9×40 is a trustworthy and functional scope for your muzzleloader.
What to Look For in a Muzzleloader Scope
Choosing the right scope for your muzzleloader isn’t quite the same as picking one for a modern centerfire rifle. I’ve learned through experience that these classic firearms have specific needs. The first and most critical factor is eye relief. Muzzleloaders, especially in-line models, generate a significant amount of recoil. A scope with generous eye relief—I typically look for at least 3.5 to 4 inches—is non-negotiable for safety and comfort. It keeps the scope from “biting” you on the shot, which is a real concern with heavier loads.
Next, let’s talk about magnification. For most of my hunting, which involves woods and moderate fields, a lower power variable scope is the perfect fit. Something in the 3-9x40mm range is incredibly versatile. It gives me a wide field of view for quick shots at close range but allows me to dial up the power for a more precise shot across a clearing. Fixed-power scopes can work, but I prefer the flexibility. The objective lens size, like the 40mm in that example, is a good balance, letting in plenty of light without making the scope overly bulky.
Durability and construction are also paramount. A scope for a muzzleloader has to be built tough to handle the sharp, distinct recoil impulse. I always check that the scope is nitrogen-purged and has O-ring seals to be both fog-proof and waterproof. You don’t want your hunt ruined by a fogged-up lens on a cold, damp morning. The internal components should be shockproof, and a one-piece tube is generally more robust than a two-piece design.
Finally, consider the reticle. For the typical ranges of a muzzleloader hunt, a simple duplex-style reticle is often all you need. It’s uncluttered and fast to use. However, if you plan on taking longer shots, a scope with a Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticle can be a huge help. These reticles have holdover points that can be calibrated for the trajectory of your specific sabot and bullet weight combination. Just remember, you’ll need to spend time at the range to confirm where those marks line up with your load at various distances. Taking the time to understand these factors will directly lead you to the 8 best scopes for muzzleloader rifles featured in our hunter’s guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal eye relief for a muzzleloader scope?
I consider a minimum of 3.5 inches of eye relief to be the safe starting point. For magnum loads or heavier recoiling rifles, I would strongly recommend looking for a scope that offers 4 inches or more. This extra space is your best defense against getting scoped by the eyepiece during recoil, which is a common issue with the sharp kick of a muzzleloader.
Can I use a regular rifle scope on my muzzleloader?
You can, but I would advise caution. Many modern centerfire rifle scopes are built with shorter eye relief, around 3 to 3.5 inches, which can be risky. Furthermore, the unique recoil impulse of a muzzleloader can sometimes damage scopes not specifically engineered to handle it. I always lean towards scopes that are either marketed for muzzleloaders or are known for their long eye relief and rugged construction, like those designed for heavy-recoiling shotguns or big bore rifles.
Is a BDC reticle necessary for muzzleloader hunting?
It’s not strictly necessary, but it can be a very useful tool. For most of my hunting in wooded areas, a standard duplex reticle is perfectly fine. However, if you hunt in more open terrain where shots beyond 150 yards are a possibility, a BDC reticle can help you make accurate holdover shots without fiddling with turrets. The key is to test it extensively with your chosen load, as the drop marks are calibrated for specific ballistic profiles.
What magnification range is best for a muzzleloader?
I find a 3-9x variable power scope to be the most practical and popular choice. It provides a wide field of view on the lower setting for close-range, fast-moving shots, and enough magnification on the top end for precise shot placement at the outer effective range of a muzzleloader. A fixed 4x scope can also work well for dedicated woods hunting, but the versatility of a 3-9x is hard to beat for most situations you’ll encounter.
How important is waterproof and fog-proof construction?
It’s absolutely critical. Hunting often happens in less-than-ideal weather—early mornings with heavy dew, rain, or snow. A scope that isn’t fully sealed will fog up internally, rendering it useless. I only consider scopes that are O-ring sealed and nitrogen-purged to guarantee they remain clear and functional in any condition. This is a basic requirement for any serious hunting optic, especially for a muzzleloader where seasons can be late and weather can be harsh.
Do I need an expensive scope for my muzzleloader?
Not necessarily. While you don’t want the absolute cheapest option, there are many high-quality, mid-priced scopes that are perfectly suited for the task. The most important thing is that it has the essential features we’ve discussed: long eye relief, durable construction, and reliable weatherproofing. Investing in a reputable brand within your budget that meets these criteria is a smarter move than buying a high-dollar scope designed for a different type of shooting. Finding a balance between cost and these core features is the real key to selecting from the 8 best scopes for muzzleloader rifles.