The Top Tactical Rifle Scopes You Need for Your Next Mission
Introduction
Are you on the hunt for the best tactical rifle scopes? To hit your target with precision, you need the right scope. Rifle optics offer accuracy and reliability, allowing snipers to hit even far targets.
There are many types of scopes, such as magnified optics and red dot sights; each has unique features. Pick one that suits your shooting style and budget! But, what scope is right for you?
We are here to help you find the top tactical rifle scopes for your mission. In this article, we'll review popular models and explain how they fit different tasks and environments. We'll also tell you what features to look for when shopping for a quality scope, so you can make an informed decision.
Types of Tactical Rifle Scopes
Professionals, hunters and shooting fans – a tactical rifle scope is a must! Three types are out there: fixed, variable and illuminated. What are the pros and cons? Let's check it out!
Red Dot Scopes
Red dot scopes have become hugely popular in the market. They are small, durable, and cost-effective. These sights use a red illuminated reticle or ‘dot' to help shooters acquire a target quickly.
These scopes vary from basic to complex ones. Features such as adjustable brightness and magnification are available. Quality red dot scopes should have multi-coated glass for clarity and minimal glare. They should also have an etched reticle which is not affected by power or bumps. Parallax correction is also important, for the shooter to hold the rifle at any angle without losing sight of the target.
Red dot scopes are best suited for tactical shooting where speed is crucial, such as close-range engagements or home defense. Accuracy depends on how fast the shooter can acquire and stay on the target. Therefore, they are ideal for shooters with experience in iron sights and proper use of rifle scopes.
Prism Scopes
Prism scopes are the rage! They feature an angled erector lens system, which results in a much shorter length than a regular tube scope. They produce a crisp and clear image, albeit with less magnification power than other optics. They're lightweight, durable and have a compact profile, so they're great for tactical ops.
Popular models come in 1-6×24 or 2-8×32 configurations. Both have illuminated reticles and adjustable brightness settings. The reticle can be wire or etched glass. Usually, the reticle is an open circle, small cross or large cross for accuracy at different distances. Windage and elevation adjustments for long range shots are also possible. Research to decide which model is best for your needs before you buy.
Variable Power Scopes
Variable power scopes cater to many shooting activities. They enable the shooter to adjust magnification to their needs. An adjustable objective lens is used to focus light on the reticle and sharpen or blur the target image.
Some variable power rifle scopes feature digital display systems. These can guide shots at longer distances or provide feedback on close range shots. Furthermore, adjustable brightness settings let shooters change according to time and weather, making these scopes great for hunting.
Common variable power scopes are 3-9x40mm with a 40mm objective lens diameter. Other configurations are 4-12x50mm and 5-15x60mm Long Range Tactical Rifle Scopes. These offer more powered magnification and larger objective lens size for better light gathering.
Popular types of variable power tactical scopes are:
- ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) Scope
- Mil Dot Reticle Scope
- BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) Reticle Scope
- Illuminated Bezel Scope
- Night Vision Scope
Features to Consider
Picking a tactical rifle scope? Analyze the build, quality and material. Confirm it lasts years and won't falter in crucial moments. Look at optics, magnification, reticle, and illuminated reticles. These features will give you an extraordinary scope for your next mission.
Magnification
Magnification is something to consider when looking at tactical rifle scopes. It is typically given here, or as a ratio like 4-16×50. This shows that you can zoom in 16 times, making an object 50 meters away appear 16x closer.
Magnification is measured in power. Each increase in the number is double the magnification. For example, 10X would appear twice as far away as 5X, and 20X would appear four times further away. If shots from extreme distances are needed, choose a higher magnification range, such as 8-32×50.
There are several types of optical systems available to allow changes in magnification. Variable power scopes offer settings between the highest and lowest magnifications. Fixed power scopes provide detail at each setting but need external adjustments (focusable lenses) for clarity at different distances.
Reticles
When selecting a rifle scope, one must consider the reticle. This is the crosshair in the scope used to aim at stationary or moving targets. There are two types: first-focal-plane (FFP) and second-focal-plane (SFP).
- FFP Reticles: These have an optical design where the reticle varies in size as you change the magnification. This makes target acquisition easier. You can use this type of scope to range targets at any magnification. It also has windage marks.
- SFP Reticles: These let you quickly acquire targets because the size stays the same as you switch magnifications. However, they aren’t as precise when ranging targets and determining windage. They also show a thick crosshair in low light.
- Hybrid scope designs may have a first focal plane illumination at certain magnifications. This lets you have the benefits of both types of reticles.
Consider your tactical needs before choosing between these two varieties. This will make sure you get the right scope!
Eye Relief
Eye relief is an important factor when choosing the right scope. It's the distance from the eyepiece where you can see comfortably without straining your eyes.
- For riflescopes, eye relief should be 3 inches or more for shotguns or firearms with heavy recoil.
- For hunting or target shooting it should be 3 to 6 inches.
- And for bench rest shooting it should be 6-10+ inches.
Tips: select one with the largest exit pupil; choose an eyepiece that provides good eye coverage; and make sure lines of sight are aligned correctly.
Durability
Durability is key when selecting a tactical rifle scope. After all, it's the most essential part of your package. If the scope fails, you won't hit the target. Look for a scope that can handle rain, snow and shock from external sources.
Quality military-style tactical rifle scopes should stand up to heavy recoil and abuse from high powered weapons, like 50-caliber rifles or magnum cartridges. Look for scopes with hardened aluminum or steel housings and waterproofed, nitrogen-filled lenses for fog resistance. Read markings on controls should be easy to read and sealed against dirt contamination. This combination of features ensures maximum performance and reliability in various environmental scenarios.
Top Tactical Rifle Scopes
Shooting for fun? Competing? Hunting for a living? Whichever it is, the right scope can make a huge difference. It can help you aim better, maximize range, and boost performance.
Let's check out some great tactical rifle scopes for your next mission!
Vortex Optics Crossfire II
Vortex Optics Crossfire II is a high-quality tactical rifle scope! Reasonably priced and ARC-MOA reticle for quick target shooting. Crisp & clear image, even in low light. Adjustable zoom, capped turrets, anti-reflective lenses, 10 brightness levels & parallax from 40 yards to infinity. Eye relief of 3.9 inches for recoil cushion & tight sight picture. Robust one-piece aluminum tubes; shockproof, waterproof & fog proof. Quick target acquisition & precision for successful shots in any range & weather condition. One of the top tactical rifles you need for your next mission!
Bushnell Elite Tactical LRTS
Bushnell Elite Tactical LRTS is a top-rated tactical rifle scope. It features ED Prime glass, XR fully multi-coated lenses, and wide Band anti-reflection coatings. This increases brightness even when shooting in low light.
- It has 25x magnification with 5x zoom, 10 mils/click windage/elevation adjustments, and locking turrets.
- The BTR-1 reticle illuminates automatically during movement to highlight the illuminated crosshairs. It gives you enhanced accuracy and quick range acquisition in any lighting condition.
- Long range shooters trust this tactical rifle scope with its precision out to 1,000 yards.
- It is a durable construction that meets or exceeds the most demanding requirements of law enforcement and military personnel worldwide.
Trijicon AccuPower
The Trijicon AccuPower is the perfect pick for those hunting for a dependable tactical rifle scope. It has three different reticles: MRAD, BDC, and MOM. You can adjust shots precisely at lengthy ranges. Its powerful LED illuminator provides five brightness settings with eleven reticle colors to choose from. You can customize your rifle setup to fit your needs.
The mid-range zoom setting of 4x is great for accurate shooting up to 800 meters. It's easy to identify targets in any lighting situation. It has aircraft grade aluminum housing, so it can withstand even the toughest conditions without failure. Windage and elevation knobs to make it possible to quickly adjust shots with precision accuracy and ease.
With unbeatable performance no matter the job, the Trijicon AccuPower is the ideal tactical rifle scope for any mission.
Primary Arms SLX
The Primary Arms SLX is an awesome scope for AR-type rifles. It has 4-14X magnification, a 44mm objective lens and 11 brightness settings in the illuminated reticle.
Adjustable parallax can be set from 10 yards to infinity with easy-to-use turrets. The lenses are multi-coated for clarity and light transmission. Plus, they're waterproof and fogproof.
It's an amazing value for quality and price. It's great for medium to long range shooting. The Primary Arms SLX is one of the best tactical rifle scopes around. If you want great performance at an affordable price, it's a top option!
Conclusion
The ideal tactical rifle scope should work in many places and for different reasons. So, before purchasing, think about the features and specs of the scope like an illuminated reticle, an adjustable objective (AO), or parallax adjustment. Also, consider the environment it'll be used in. Make sure it is sturdy enough for whatever nature throws at it.
Look at the brand's rep, customer reviews, and ratings too. All these are important to see if it fits your needs. With this guide and a little research, you can find the perfect tactical rifle scope for your next mission!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of tactical rifle scopes are available?
A: There are many types of tactical rifle scopes available, including red dot sights, variable power scopes, thermal scopes, and night vision scopes.
Q: What is the best tactical rifle scope for the money?
A: It depends on your budget and personal preferences. However, some of the best tactical rifle scopes for the money include the Trijicon ACOG, the Leupold Mark 5HD, and the Vortex Optics Strike Eagle.
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when choosing a tactical rifle scope?
A: The most important thing to consider when choosing a tactical rifle scope is the type of mission you are undertaking. Different scopes are designed for different conditions and environments, so it's important to make sure you have the right scope for the job.