The 3-9×40 riflescope remains the quintessential workhorse for hunters and shooters. This versatile magnification range, paired with a 40mm objective lens, offers a perfect balance of wide field of view for close-range shots and enough power to confidently place rounds at extended distances. It’s a configuration that has proven its worth on deer stands, in varmint fields, and on the practice range for generations.
With so many options available, selecting the right scope for your needs and budget can be a challenge. The best 3-9×40 scope for you depends on a combination of optical clarity, reticle choice, durability, and overall value. This roundup examines eight popular models, from trusted legacy brands to value-packed contenders, to help you make an informed decision for your next rifle.
Our Top Picks for 3-9×40 Rifle Scopes
- BURRIS FullField II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II Dead Hold BDC Reticle
- Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescope
- Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC Reticle Riflescope
- Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Duplex Reticle Riflescope
- Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle
- Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag Riflescope
- Barska 3-9×40 Contour Riflescope with Mil-Dot Reticle
BURRIS FullField II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
The Burris FullField II is a perennial favorite that delivers premium features at an accessible price point. It is built with high-grade optical glass and precision-ground lenses that are larger than many competing models, resulting in exceptional brightness and clarity. This foundation makes it a reliable companion in various lighting conditions.
Durability and performance are further enhanced by its Index-matched, Hi-Lume multicoating, which aids in low-light performance and reduces glare. The integrated eyepiece design provides a no-slip grip for easy adjustments, while the positive steel-on-steel click adjustments ensure repeatable accuracy shot after shot. It’s a scope designed for the serious hunter who values quality construction.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Dead Hold BDC Reticle
Vortex Optics is renowned for its robust warranties and high-value optics, and the Crossfire II with the Dead-Hold BDC reticle is a prime example. This reticle is specifically designed for hunting at varying ranges where estimating holdover is necessary, providing aiming points for longer shots without dialing adjustments. It simplifies the shooting process when time is critical.
The scope features a long eye relief and an ultra-forgiving eye box, allowing you to acquire a sight picture quickly and easily. Anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses ensure bright and clear views, while the fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick reticle focusing. This combination of user-friendly features makes it an excellent choice for both new and experienced shooters.
Vortex Optics Crossfire II Second Focal Plane Riflescope
Another variant in the acclaimed Crossfire II series, this model maintains the core strengths of the line in a straightforward package. As a second focal plane scope, the reticle size remains constant as you change magnification, which many shooters prefer for its consistent appearance. This makes it easier to use the reticle for holdovers at a fixed magnification setting.
You can expect the same durable construction, clear glass, and reliable performance that Vortex is known for. It is a solid, no-frills optic that is built to withstand recoil and the elements. For hunters seeking a dependable Vortex scope with a simple duplex-style or standard BDC reticle, this model is a strong contender that focuses on fundamental performance.
Nikon Buckmasters II 3-9×40 BDC Reticle Riflescope
Though Nikon has exited the riflescope market, the Buckmasters II remains a popular and capable optic that can often be found through retailers. It features Nikon’s proprietary BDC reticle, which was designed to provide quick, accurate aiming points for a wide range of calibers and trajectories. The optics are fully multi-coated for high light transmission.
This scope was built with the spot-and-stalk hunter in mind, offering a lightweight and compact design. The spring-loaded zero-reset turrets allow for easy adjustment and quick return to zero after making field corrections. For those who can find one, the Nikon Buckmasters II represents a piece of proven optical history from a trusted brand.
Leupold VX-Freedom 3-9×40 Duplex Reticle Riflescope
The Leupold VX-Freedom brings American-made optical excellence to a highly competitive price point. It is built around the Twilight Light Management System, which maximizes light transmission during the critical low-light periods at dawn and dusk when game is most active. This results in a brighter sight picture and more contrast when you need it most.
Ruggedness is a hallmark of the Leupold brand, and the VX-Freedom is no exception. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, ensuring reliability in all weather conditions. With its crisp Duplex reticle and lightweight design, the VX-Freedom is a premium-quality scope that honors Leupold’s long-standing reputation for durability and performance.
Bushnell Banner Dusk & Dawn Multi-X Reticle
The Bushnell Banner series is engineered specifically for performance in low-light conditions, a key consideration for many hunters. Its Dusk & Dawn Brightness (DDB) multi-coating is designed to provide a brighter image when light is fading. This gives you a valuable extra few minutes of shooting light at the end of the day.
This scope offers a good mix of essential features, including a multi-x reticle for precise aiming and fully multi-coated lenses. It is built to be durable, with a one-piece tube construction that is both waterproof and fog-proof. The Bushnell Banner represents a solid value for hunters who frequently find themselves in low-light environments.
Simmons 3-9x32mm .22 Mag Riflescope
The Simmons .22 Mag is a purpose-built scope for rimfire rifles and is a popular choice for .22 LR and .22 WMR platforms. Its compact 3-9x32mm configuration is well-suited to the ballistics and typical engagement ranges of rimfire cartridges. The Truplex reticle provides a simple and uncluttered sight picture for small game hunting.
This scope includes features like the SureGrip rubber surface on the power ring and eyepiece for easy adjustment. It is also waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof, making it a durable option for use in the field. For rimfire enthusiasts seeking a reliable and affordable scope, the Simmons .22 Mag has been a trusted name for years.
Barska 3-9×40 Contour Riflescope with Mil-Dot Reticle
The Barska Contour is an economical option that includes features often found on more expensive models, such as a mil-dot reticle. This reticle is useful for range estimation and holdover corrections, making the scope versatile for both hunting and target shooting applications. Its one-piece tube construction provides a solid foundation for durability.
Fully coated lenses help improve light transmission and clarity. While positioned as an entry-level scope, it offers a feature set that can appeal to shooters on a tight budget or those looking for a capable optic for a plinking rifle. The included mounting rings add to its overall value proposition.
What to Look For in a 3-9x40mm Scope
So, you’re in the market for a new riflescope, and the classic 3-9×40 configuration has caught your eye. It’s a fantastic choice for a reason. That 3x low-end magnification is perfect for quick, close-range shots in thick brush, while the 9x top-end gives you the precision you need for reaching out to longer distances on a deer or varmint. The 40mm objective lens is a great middle ground, gathering plenty of light without making the scope overly bulky on your rifle. But with dozens of models out there, how do you pick the right one for you? I focus on a few key areas to narrow down my search for the best 8-9X40 scopes for my rifle.
First, I think about the optics themselves. Glass quality is paramount. I look for fully multi-coated lenses, as this treatment significantly reduces glare and increases light transmission. A brighter, clearer sight picture at dawn or dusk can make all the difference. The type of reticle is another huge consideration. For a general-purpose hunting rifle, a simple duplex-style reticle is hard to beat for its speed and ease of use. If I plan on doing any long-range shooting or hunting in variable conditions, a reticle with holdover points, like a BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator), becomes much more appealing. Just remember, a busy reticle can be a hindrance in low light.
Next, I turn my attention to the turrets. These are the knobs you use to adjust for windage and elevation. For a hunting scope, I strongly prefer a capped design. Capped turrets protect your zero from being accidentally knocked or changed, which is a lifesaver when you’re crawling through the woods. If you’re a shooter who likes to dial for different ranges, then exposed, tactile turrets are a must. I always check that the adjustments are crisp and audible, with a solid feel—no mushy or vague clicks.
Finally, I consider durability and construction. The scope needs to be tough enough to handle recoil and the occasional bump. I look for a one-piece tube, usually 1-inch or 30mm in diameter, which is inherently stronger. Nitrogen purging and O-ring seals are non-negotiable for fog-proof and waterproof performance. The warranty is also a big deal to me. A company that stands behind its product with a strong, no-questions-asked warranty gives me a lot of confidence in my purchase. By weighing these factors—glass quality, reticle, turrets, and build—I can find a 3-9x40mm scope that fits both my rifle and my hunting style perfectly.
FAQ
Is a 3-9×40 scope a good all-around choice?
Absolutely. I consider the 3-9×40 one of the most versatile scopes ever made. The 3x low end is wide enough for fast target acquisition in thick cover or on moving game, while the 9x magnification gives you plenty of precision for accurate shots at longer ranges, out to 300 yards or so on medium-sized game. It’s a true “do-it-all” optic that works wonderfully on everything from a .22 LR to a .30-06.
What does the “40” in 3-9×40 mean?
The “40” refers to the diameter of the objective (front) lens in millimeters. A larger objective lens can gather more light, which generally translates to a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions like early morning or late evening. The 40mm size is a great balance; it provides excellent light-gathering capability without making the scope too heavy or requiring excessively high rings to mount it on your rifle.
What is the difference between a 3-9×40 and a 4-12×40 scope?
The main difference is in the magnification range. A 4-12×40 scope has a higher top-end magnification (12x vs. 9x), which can be beneficial for precision shooting at very long ranges or for varmint hunting where you need to see small targets clearly. However, you lose the very low 3x power, which can make it slower to use on close-range, fast-moving targets. For most big-game hunting, I find the 3-9×40 to be the more practical and versatile of the two.
Can I use a 3-9×40 scope for hog hunting?
Yes, a 3-9×40 is an excellent choice for hog hunting. You’ll often encounter hogs at various distances and in different lighting. The 3x setting is perfect for scanning woodlines and taking quick shots at sounders that burst out of cover, while the 9x power helps you make a precise shot on a stationary hog at a couple hundred yards. The 40mm objective ensures you have a clear sight picture during those critical low-light periods when hogs are most active.
What mounting rings do I need for a 3-9×40 scope?
Most 3-9×40 scopes have a standard 1-inch main tube diameter. You will need a set of 1-inch rings that match the base on your rifle (like Picatinny, Weaver, or a proprietary base). The height of the rings is important too. For a 40mm objective on a rifle with a low bolt handle, low or medium-height rings are usually sufficient to provide proper eye relief and clearance between the objective bell and the rifle barrel. I always recommend test-fitting the scope in the rings before fully tightening everything down.
Are more expensive 3-9×40 scopes really worth it?
In my experience, you generally get what you pay for. A higher price tag typically buys you better glass quality, resulting in a sharper, brighter, and more color-accurate image. It also often means more robust construction, more reliable and precise adjustments, and a better warranty. While there are some fantastic budget-friendly 3-9x40mm options available, investing in a quality scope from a reputable brand is one of the best upgrades you can make to your rifle, directly impacting your ability to shoot accurately and ethically.