The Remington 700 is a legendary platform, revered for its inherent accuracy and robust action. To truly unlock its potential for precision shooting, whether on the hunt or at the range, pairing it with the right riflescope is paramount. The correct optic will enhance your ability to make consistent, long-range shots by providing superior clarity, reliable adjustments, and a reticle that complements your shooting style.
With a vast array of scopes on the market, selecting the perfect one can be a challenge. This roundup is designed to cut through the noise and present you with a curated list of the best scopes that are a proven match for the Remington 700. We have considered a range of options to suit different budgets and precision shooting disciplines, from tactical long-range engagements to precise hunting shots.
Our Top Picks for Remington 700 Scopes
- Bushnell Elite Tactical Riflescope XRS II
- Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50 CDS Riflescope
- Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 CDS-ZL Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP
- Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 Riflescope
- Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP
- Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21×50
Bushnell Elite Tactical Riflescope XRS II
As part of Bushnell’s flagship line, the Elite Tactical XRS II is engineered for shooters who demand precision at extreme distances. It is built to the most exacting standards, making it a tool for serious long-range competitors and tactical marksmen. The scope is designed to perform reliably under demanding conditions.
Key features include the advanced H59 reticle for complex holdovers and windage corrections. The Exo Barrier coating is a significant advantage, as it is a molecularly-bonded layer that repels water, oil, fog, dust, and debris from the lens surfaces. For quick engagement at varying distances, the scope also includes a removable throw lever for rapid magnification changes.
Vortex Optics Viper 6.5-20×50 Riflescope
The Vortex Viper is a versatile scope that offers a high-magnification range suitable for precision target shooting and varmint hunting. Built on a durable 30mm tube, it provides a solid foundation for consistent tracking and repeatability. The Mil-Dot reticle in the second focal plane is a classic choice for estimating range, holdover, and windage.
Optical performance is a strong point, with fully multi-coated lenses that deliver excellent resolution and color fidelity. The XR coatings enhance light transmission for brighter images in low-light conditions, while Armortek coatings protect the lenses from scratches and oil. The capped reset turrets allow for easy re-indexing to zero after sighting in, and the side focus parallax adjustment is convenient for maintaining a clear sight picture.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×50 Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom is an excellent choice for the hunter who requires a dependable and straightforward scope for their Remington 700. Its 3-9x magnification range and large 50mm objective lens provide a bright, wide field of view that is ideal for most big-game hunting scenarios. The duplex reticle is simple and fast to use.
A standout feature is the Custom Dial System (CDS), which allows you to order a turret customized to your specific load and environmental conditions. Once installed, you can simply turn the dial to the target’s range and aim dead on, eliminating the need for holdovers. The ZeroStop system is also included, preventing you from accidentally turning the dial past the zero setting.
Leupold VX-3HD 4.5-14×40 CDS-ZL Riflescope
Stepping up in optical quality, the Leupold VX-3HD offers exceptional clarity and resolution in a package built for discerning hunters and shooters. The higher magnification range makes it well-suited for longer-range shots on game or steel targets. The side focus parallax adjustment ensures a crisp image at any distance.
This model features the advanced ZeroLock Custom Dial System (CDS-ZL), which combines the benefits of a custom ballistic dial with a locking mechanism to prevent accidental adjustments. The illuminated FireDot Twilight Hunter reticle is designed for quick target acquisition in critical low-light moments, bringing your eye directly to the aiming point.
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP
The Diamondback Tactical represents outstanding value for shooters entering the world of long-range precision. Its First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle is a key feature, meaning the reticle’s size changes with magnification, allowing for accurate holdover measurements at any power setting. This is a critical tool for competitive shooting and tactical training.
With a generous 6-24x magnification, this scope provides the zoom needed to see and engage distant targets clearly. It is built with Vortex’s signature ruggedness, featuring a one-piece tube that is shockproof and waterproof. The exposed tactical turrets offer audible and tactile clicks for positive feedback on your adjustments.
Nightforce SHV 5-20×56 Riflescope
Nightforce is synonymous with ruggedness and reliability, and the SHV series brings that heritage to a more accessible level. This scope is built to withstand heavy recoil and harsh environments, making it a trusted companion for serious hunters and shooters. The large 56mm objective lens gathers a significant amount of light for superior performance at dawn and dusk.
The 5-20x magnification range is versatile, covering everything from close-range, fast-moving targets to precise long-range shots. Nightforce optics are known for their exceptional clarity and sharpness, providing a distinct advantage when trying to identify targets in mirage or low-contrast conditions. The turrets are designed for repeatable, precise adjustments shot after shot.
Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II 5-25×50 FFP
The Viper PST Gen II is a favorite among precision rifle shooters for its exceptional feature set and performance. As a First Focal Plane scope, it offers a reticle that is usable at all magnification levels for precise holds and ranging. The 5-25x magnification range is ideal for dedicated long-range work, from competition to hunting.
It includes premium features such as an illuminated reticle, a side parallax knob, and turrets with a zero-stop function for a quick return to your base zero. The glass is high-quality, providing a bright and clear image even at maximum magnification. Its construction is rock-solid, ensuring it can handle the demands of a precision Remington 700 rifle.
Bushnell Elite Tactical DMR II 3.5-21×50
The Bushnell DMR II is another top-tier offering from the Elite Tactical series, designed for the DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle) role. Its 3.5-21x magnification range provides incredible versatility, allowing for both close-quarters engagement and extreme long-range precision. The G3 reticle is a popular choice for its clean and functional design.
This scope is packed with professional-grade features, including a first focal plane reticle, an illuminated center dot, and tactical-style turrets that are both precise and durable. Like the XRS II, it benefits from the protective Exo Barrier coating. It represents a superb balance of optical performance, feature set, and rugged construction for the advanced shooter.
Buying Guide: How to Pick a Scope for Your Remington 700
Choosing the right scope for your Remington 700 is a big part of building a precision rifle. I have found that getting it wrong can be frustrating, but getting it right makes all the difference on the range or in the field. The goal is to match the scope’s capabilities to your intended use, whether that’s punching paper at 1,000 yards or taking a careful shot at a big game animal. Here are the main things I always consider.
First, think about magnification. For long-range precision work, a higher magnification range is helpful. I generally look for something that starts around 4x or 5x on the low end and goes up to 25x or even higher. This gives me the flexibility to spot my shots at a distance while still having a wide enough field of view for closer targets. However, if my Remington 700 is a hunting rifle, I might prefer a more versatile scope like a 3-9x or 4-12x, which is better for quick shots at varying distances.
Next, the objective lens size matters for light gathering. A larger objective lens, like 50mm or 56mm, lets in more light, which provides a brighter image in low-light conditions. This is crucial for dawn or dusk hunting. The trade-off is that a larger objective often means you need higher scope rings to achieve a proper cheek weld. I always balance my need for low-light performance with the desire to keep the rifle’s profile as low and comfortable as possible.
The reticle is your interface with the target. For precision shooting, a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle is my strong preference. With an FFP reticle, the holdover markings are accurate at every magnification level. This is a huge advantage when you need to make a rapid, calculated shot. Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticles are more common and can be perfectly fine, especially for hunting, but remember that the holdover points are only accurate at one specific magnification, usually the highest.
Finally, don’t overlook the turrets. You want turrets that are tactile, repeatable, and reliable. Look for scopes with clear, easy-to-read markings and a solid, positive click when you adjust them. For hunting, I often prefer capped turrets to prevent accidental bumps from changing my zero. For a dedicated target rifle, exposed tactical-style turrets are the way to go for fast adjustments. The build quality and glass clarity are also non-negotiable for a precision rifle; a fogged-up scope or one that can’t hold zero is useless. Investing in a robust scope from a reputable brand is the best way to ensure your 8 Best Scopes for the Remington 700 Rifle [For Precision] setup performs when it counts.
FAQ
What magnification scope is best for a Remington 700?
There isn’t a single “best” magnification; it depends entirely on what you’re doing with the rifle. For long-range target shooting, I use a scope with a higher top-end magnification, like a 5-25x. This helps me see small targets and spot my own hits at extreme distances. For a hunting application, especially in woods or for moving game, a lower power scope like a 3-9x or 4-12x is much more practical and versatile.
Is a First Focal Plane or Second Focal Plane reticle better?
For a precision-focused Remington 700, I strongly lean towards a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle. The main benefit is that the reticle’s subtensions (the markings for holdover and windage) remain accurate at every magnification setting. This is critical for making quick, correct shots at unknown distances. A Second Focal Plane (SFP) reticle is simpler and can work well for hunting where you might just use the center crosshair, but its holdover points are only correct at one power, which can lead to errors.
What size objective lens do I need?
This comes down to your typical shooting conditions. A larger objective lens (e.g., 50mm) gathers more light, which provides a brighter sight picture during the low-light periods of dawn and dusk. This is a significant advantage for hunters. For range use where lighting is consistent, a 44mm or 50mm objective is often perfectly sufficient. Remember, a larger objective requires higher rings to clear the rifle’s barrel.
How important are the turrets on a scope?
Extremely important. The turrets are how you adjust for elevation and windage, so they need to be precise and reliable. I look for turrets that have a distinct, audible click and feel solid when turned. For tactical or competition use, exposed turrets that are easy to grip and read are essential. For a hunting rifle, I sometimes prefer capped turrets to protect the settings from being accidentally changed while I’m moving through brush.
Can I use a hunting scope for long-range target shooting?
You can, but you might run into limitations. A typical hunting scope might not have the same level of optical clarity at high magnification, the turrets may not be as robust or repeatable for constant adjustment, and it likely won’t have a zero-stop feature. For occasional plinking, it’s fine. But for serious precision work with your Remington 700, a scope built specifically for that purpose will be a much better tool for the job.
Do I need to spend a lot of money on a good scope?
You get what you pay for. While there are some very good value-oriented options available, the quality of the glass, the reliability of the internal components, and the toughness of the housing generally improve with price. For a rifle as capable as the Remington 700, I consider the scope an investment. A high-quality scope will not only improve your shooting experience but will also be a durable piece of equipment that lasts for years, making it a key part of any 8 Best Scopes for the Remington 700 Rifle [For Precision] list.