Long-range shooting demands precision, and at the heart of every accurate shot is a reliable riflescope. For those who rely on the Mil-Dot reticle system for range estimation, windage, and holdovers, selecting the right optic is paramount. The market is flooded with options, but only a select few deliver the clarity, durability, and features needed to excel at extreme distances.
Whether you are a competitive shooter, a dedicated hunter, or a tactical enthusiast, a quality Mil-Dot scope is a critical investment. This roundup for 2025 highlights eight of the best scopes available, designed to help you connect with your target, shot after shot. We have considered a range of models to suit different needs and budgets, from feature-packed tactical options to trusted hunting companions.
Our Top Picks for Mil-Dot Scopes
- Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
- Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 Hunting Gun Scope
- BURRIS FullField II 6.5-20×50 Scope, Ballistic Mil-Dot
- Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
- Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Rifle Scope – ACSS-HUD-DMR
- Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 First Focal Plane
- Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50 SF Matte Riflescope
- Burris Optics Veracity 5-25x50mm Long Range Hunting Scope
Primary Arms SLX 4-14x44mm FFP Rifle Scope
This First Focal Plane scope is an excellent value for hunters and precision shooters. The 4-14x magnification range is versatile for various scenarios, while the ACSS-Orion reticle is specifically designed for quick ranging and wind holds on deer and coyote-sized targets. Its user-friendly design makes long-range engagements more accessible.
Built to withstand harsh conditions, the scope is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen purged to prevent internal fogging. The durable aluminum body ensures it can handle the recoil from cartridges like .308 and .223. For a feature-rich FFP scope that balances performance and affordability, this model is a strong contender.
Nightforce ATACR 7-35x56mm F1 Hunting Gun Scope
The Nightforce ATACR represents the pinnacle of long-range optical engineering. With an extensive 7-35x magnification range and an ED glass package, it provides exceptional clarity and resolution, pushing the limits of modern precision rifle systems. The wide field of view makes acquiring and identifying targets at extreme distances remarkably easy.
This scope is packed with professional-grade features, including Digillum reticle illumination, a ZeroStop mechanism for a rapid return to zero, and 100 MOA of elevation travel. Parallax adjustment down to 10 meters and a robust construction make it a top choice for competitive shooters and professionals who require maximum precision and reliability.
BURRIS FullField II 6.5-20×50 Scope
The Burris FullField II is a classic hunting scope that offers premium features at an accessible price point. Its high-grade optical glass delivers excellent brightness and clarity, which is further enhanced by the large 50mm objective lens. This combination ensures a bright, clear sight picture in low-light conditions, which is critical for hunters.
With a 6.5-20x magnification range and a ballistic Mil-Dot reticle, this scope is well-suited for varmint hunting and medium to long-range shooting. It provides a trusted and straightforward platform for shooters who need reliable performance without unnecessary complexity. Its lasting durability makes it a dependable companion in the field.
Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical 6-24×50 FFP Riflescope
Vortex Optics brings its renowned value and performance to the tactical arena with the Diamondback Tactical. This first focal plane scope features a 6-24x magnification range, making it ideal for long-range target shooting and varmint control. The reticle remains valid for holdovers and ranging at any magnification setting, a crucial feature for precision work.
The scope is built with a hard-anodized, single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube for maximum strength and durability. It is O-ring sealed and argon purged, making it waterproof and fog-proof. With exposed tactical turrets and a parallax adjustment, it offers the control and repeatability that serious shooters demand.
Primary Arms SLx 4-14×44 FFP Rifle Scope – ACSS-HUD-DMR
Another standout from Primary Arms, this SLx model utilizes the advanced ACSS-HUD-DMR reticle. This reticle is designed for rapid engagement and provides a clean, uncluttered view with multiple aiming references. The first focal plane design ensures these references are accurate across the entire 4-14x magnification spectrum.
This scope is engineered for durability and reliability, featuring a robust construction that stands up to heavy use. It is an excellent choice for designated marksman roles or any shooter who appreciates a sophisticated reticle system in a versatile magnification package. It brings advanced functionality to a very competitive price point.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR GEN2 6-24×50 First Focal Plane
The Athlon Argos BTR GEN2 is a feature-packed scope that delivers impressive performance for its class. As a first focal plane optic, the Mil-Dot reticle provides accurate subtensions at all magnification levels. The 6-24x zoom range offers the flexibility needed for both mid-range and extreme long-range shooting.
It includes fully multi-coated lenses for increased light transmission and a bright image. The turrets offer tactile and audible clicks for positive feedback, and the side parallax adjustment allows for a clear sight picture. This scope is a solid option for budget-conscious shooters who do not want to compromise on essential FFP features.
Nikon Black FX1000 6-24×50 SF Matte Riflescope
Nikon leveraged its expertise in optics to create the Black FX1000, a scope designed for serious long-range shooters. It features a 6-24x magnification and a 50mm objective lens, paired with Nikon’s premium ED glass for superior color fidelity and resolution. The side-focus parallax adjustment is conveniently placed for easy access.
This model often incorporates Nikon’s proprietary Spot On Ballistic Match technology, which works with their reticles for precise holdover points. While Nikon has stepped back from the firearms scope market, the FX1000 remains a highly sought-after optic known for its exceptional glass quality and reliable performance.
Burris Optics Veracity 5-25x50mm Long Range Hunting Scope
The Burris Veracity is a high-performance scope built for long-range hunting applications. Its 5-25x magnification range provides ample power for precise shot placement at extended distances. The large 50mm objective lens gathers plenty of light, ensuring a bright and clear image during dawn and dusk, which is prime time for many hunters.
This scope features a robust construction and is waterproof and fog-proof. The turrets are designed for accurate and repeatable adjustments, which is essential when making corrections for wind and elevation. The Veracity series represents Burris’s commitment to providing hunters with optics that can meet the challenges of modern long-range shooting.
What to Look For in the Best Mil Dot Scopes
When I’m picking out a new scope for long-range work, I don’t just look at the price tag. I break down my decision into a few key areas that really matter when the target is hundreds of yards away. Getting this right is the difference between a confident shot and a frustrating miss.
First, let’s talk about the glass. Optical clarity and resolution are non-negotiable. A scope can have all the fancy features in the world, but if the image is fuzzy or dull, it’s useless for precise shooting. I look for fully multi-coated lenses; they let in more light and provide a brighter, sharper picture, especially in low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. The quality of the glass itself is paramount for making out fine details at extreme distances.
Next up is the reticle and turrets. Since we’re focusing on the best Mil Dot scopes, the reticle itself is a given. But I pay close attention to whether the turrets are also in mil-radians. Having a matching Mil/Mil system (mil reticle and mil-adjustment turrets) is a huge advantage. It simplifies the math for holdovers and windage corrections. I also check that the turrets are tactile, with positive and audible clicks, so I know exactly how much I’m dialing without having to look away.
Durability and repeatability are what separate good scopes from great ones. The tube needs to be robust, typically 30mm or 34mm, and it must be nitrogen or argon purged to be fog-proof. More importantly, the scope must track accurately. This means when I dial 2 mils of elevation, the reticle moves exactly 2 mils, and it returns to zero perfectly. I rely on this for consistent performance shot after shot.
Finally, consider the magnification range. For true long-range shooting, I prefer a scope that starts at no more than 5x or 6x on the low end and goes up to at least 20x or 25x on the high end. This gives me the flexibility for closer, faster shots and the high magnification needed to see my bullet impacts on a small target way out there. Balancing all these factors will help you find one of the best mil dot scopes in 2025 for your own long-range shooting needs.
FAQ
What exactly is a Mil Dot reticle?
A Mil Dot reticle is a system of dots or marks placed along the crosshairs. The “mil” stands for milliradian, which is an angular measurement. In practical terms, these dots help you estimate range, compensate for bullet drop, and adjust for wind without touching the turrets. It’s a tool for making quick calculations in the field, and it’s become a standard for tactical and long-range shooting.
Is a Mil Dot scope better than an MOA scope?
It’s not about one being objectively “better” than the other; it’s about which system you prefer and what you’re used to. MOA (Minute of Angle) is also an angular measurement, but mils are based on the metric system, which some find easier for mental math. A mil is a slightly larger unit than an MOA, which can make it faster for estimating holds. Both are perfectly capable for long-range work, so it often comes down to personal preference and training.
What does “First Focal Plane” mean and why is it important for a mil dot scope?
The focal plane refers to where the reticle is placed inside the scope. In a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope, the reticle grows and shrinks as you change magnification. This is crucial for a mil dot scope because the mil measurements remain accurate at every magnification level. If you’re using the dots to range a target or hold for wind, your calculations will be correct whether you’re on 5x or 25x.
Can I use a mil dot scope for hunting?
Absolutely. While they are often associated with precision rifle competitions, the best mil dot scopes are fantastic for long-range hunting. The ability to quickly range an animal and then use the dots to hold over for a shot is incredibly valuable. Just make sure you choose a scope with a magnification range suitable for your hunting environment and that it’s not excessively heavy.
How much should I expect to spend on a quality long-range mil dot scope?
This is a big range. You can find entry-level models that are perfectly serviceable for around $500, but for a scope that delivers exceptional glass, bomb-proof construction, and flawless tracking for serious long-range shooting, you should be prepared to spend anywhere from $1,500 to over $3,000. It’s a significant investment, but your optic is the most critical link between you and the target.