Best Scopes for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles in 2023 Reviews

Scopes have long been used by marksmen to help them get their shots on target. While they won’t make your aim perfect instantly, they do offer a considerable advantage for both hunting and target practice. However, the biggest problem with scopes is finding the right one for your needs within your budget.

That’s why we have reviewed the best scopes for mini 14 ranch rifles currently available. We’ve also included a buying guide to help you to ensure you end up with the best scope for your rifle.

So, let’s go through them and scope out the competition!

Best Scopes for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

Top 10 Best Scopes for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles in 2023 Reviews

  1. Vortex Optics CF2-31001R Crossfire II Riflescope – Best Mini 14 Ranch Rifle Scope for Hunting
  2. Bushnell 3-9×40 Riflescope with DZ 223 Reticle – Best Beginners Mini 14 Ranch Rifle Scope
  3. Redfield Revolution 2-7x33mm Riflescope – Best Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifle with RTA Technology
  4. UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope – Best Budget Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles
  5. Monstrum Tactical 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope – Best Mil Dot Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles
  6. Burris Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Riflescope – Best Long Range Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles
  7. Nikon 16525 P-Tactical Riflescope .223 3-9×40 – Best Weatherproof Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles
  8. Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope – Best Entry Level Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles
  9. TruGlo Tru-Brite 1-6x24mm Riflescope – Best Mini 14 Ranch Rifle Scope for Short Range Shooting
  10. Crushunt 4×32 Scope Optical Scope – Best Fixed Magnification Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

1 Vortex Optics CF2-31001R Crossfire II Riflescope – Best Mini 14 Ranch Rifle Scope for Hunting

There is a lot to look for when shopping for a new riflescope. Luckily, Vortex Optics did everything possible to get it all packed into this model. The CF2-31001R is the new Crossfire II 2-7×32 Rimfire riflescope. It’s one of many in the line and is ideal for hunting.

But, what makes this scope ideal for hunting?

There are a number of features built into this scope that any marksman or hunter will appreciate. Among them are the long eye relief and ultra-forgiving eye box. We also really like the fast-focus eyepiece. This allows for quick and easy reticle focusing. Plus, Vortex Optics uses the V-Plex reticle, which is popular as an all-purpose hunting reticle.

Built to last…

This scope is composed of a single piece tube made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This provides a solid level of strength and shockproof performance. The tube is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged, making it water and fog proof. There are also anti-reflective, fully multi-coated lenses that provide a clear and bright view of your target.

This scope also has capped MOA turrets. These are easily adjusted with a light touch and can be reset quickly and simply.

Vortex Optics CF2-31001R Crossfire II 2-7x32 Rimfire Riflescope
Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)


Pros

  • 2-7 x 32mm.
  • V-Plex MOA Reticle.
  • Hard anodized one-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses.
  • Fast-focus eyepiece.
  • Resettable MOA turrets.

Cons

  • Minimal distortion at max magnification.

2 Bushnell 3-9×40 Riflescope with DZ 223 Reticle – Best Beginners Mini 14 Ranch Rifle Scope

One of the best mini 14 sights for beginner shooters in the Bushnell line is their 3-9x40mm Riflescope. If you’re looking for your first scope for medium-range shooting, then look no further.

What’s the magnification?  

This option provides you with 3-9x magnification with a 40mm objective lens. This, along with the drop zone DZ 223 reticle provides you with a clear view of what you’re shooting at. We also like the Ballistic Drop Compensated reticle, which allows you to make precise adjustments of distant targets.

There is about 3.7 inches of eye relief; however, the eye box does get tighter in higher magnifications. For these reasons, we really liked this for medium-range shooting, and for the price, this is a mighty fine scope.

What about durability?

This is a tough piece of equipment. It is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof. However, it’s also a fair bit heavier than many other options.

We like the parallax knob and the fast-focus eyepiece. Plus, there is an adjustable length throw lever, which makes it easy to adjust magnification while wearing gloves. This is ideal for those colder times of the year.

Are the optics any good?

For the price they are great. You get a fully, multi-coated optic lens that provides clear and bright views of your target. The glass isn’t as high quality as some of our more expensive scopes understandably, but this is still easily one of the best rifle scopes for the price.

Bushnell 3-9x40 Riflescope with DZ 223 Reticle
Our rating:5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)


Pros

  • 3-9 x 40mm.
  • Ballistic Drop Compensated Reticle.
  • Waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses.
  • Fast-focus eyepiece.
  • Adjustable length throw lever.

Cons

  • One of the heavier scopes.
  • Tight eye box at max magnification.

3 Redfield Revolution 2-7x33mm Riflescope – Best Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifle with RTA Technology

While not much more expensive than the other scopes featured in this review, this next item holds the prize as the most expensive option reviewed. Having said that, there isn’t really a huge difference in cost for any of the items here.

So, is it worth the money?

Redfield would certainly say it is, and we’d find it hard to disagree. This is one of the clearest scopes we reviewed when the light starts fading. Since the best time to hunt is usually around dusk and dawn, this is rather important.

The high-quality lenses, combined with the dielectric coating, allows this scope to deliver exceptional light transmission.

Great features for the price…

We really like the Redfield quality, and you can feel that in this model. It’s waterproof, fog-proof, shockproof, and backed by a Full Lifetime Warranty. So, what more do you need?

If you’re all about features, you’ll like Redfield’s exclusive Rapid Target Acquisition (RTA) technology. This, plus the 65 MOA of windage and elevation adjustment in 1/4 MOA clicks help you hit the mark time after time. We would, therefore, consider this one of the best premium scopes for mini 14 rifles.

Redfield Revolution 2-7x33mm Riflescope
Our rating:5 out of 5 stars (5 / 5)


Pros

  • 2-7 x 33mm.
  • 4-Plex Reticle.
  • Waterproof, fog proof, and shockproof.
  • Multi-coated lens system.
  • Redfield’s exclusive Rapid Target Acquisition (RTA) technology.
  • Accu-Trac turrets with tactile finger click adjustments.
  • Full Lifetime Warranty.

Cons

  • Most expensive reviewed.

4 UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope – Best Budget Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

Dropping down to one of the least expensive options we reviewed, we next have the Compact Scope from UTG. Also known as their budget SWAT scope, this is a piece of beauty at a very affordable price.

Strong sunlight? No problem…

This scope offers a 3-12x magnification. It does this with a 44mm emerald coated lens, though the tube is only 30mm. There is also a front sunshade and flipped lens caps.

We like the EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing (IE) system. This delivers both red and green dual-color mode and a 36 color multi-color mode. No matter the weather or lighting conditions you’ll be all set. You can pick the color that sets apart or blends just the way you want.

Remembers your settings…

The thing we liked the most was the One-Click illumination memory. It pops right back to the same color or brightness setting that you had been using last, which is very quick and convenient in the field.

We are also big fans of the premium locking and zero resetting target turrets. These have been proven to be consistent and provide precise adjustments. In addition to the 3-12x magnification, it has a mil-dot, 36 color EZ Tap Reticle, is shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof.

This scope comes with a Lifetime Warranty, and for the price, has got to be one of the best mini 14 sights for sale.

UTG 3-12X44 30mm Compact Scope
Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)


Pros

  • 3-12 x 44mm.
  • Multi Emerald coated lenses.
  • One-Click illumination memory.
  • EZ-TAP Illumination Enhancing (IE) system.
  • Shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof.
  • Zero locking and resetting target turrets.

Cons

  • Knobs occasionally need to be tightened.

5 Monstrum Tactical 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope – Best Mil Dot Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

Monstrum Tactical produces the next entry on our list of the best scopes for mini 14 ranch rifles. This is their 3-12×42 AO Rifle Scope. It has a few features that we think you will find of interest, and yet it’s one of the cheapest options we’ve looked at.

Is this the best mini 14 scope for under $100?

Well, only until Monstrum Tactical realizes that they have underpriced this. We found the adjustable objective lens to provide a sharp focus, minimal parallax, and fairly accurate range estimations. The 3-12x magnification is good for target clear out to 500 yards, according to the manufacturer.

However, it’s the adjustable reticle illumination that we really like. There are five levels of brightness to choose from, along with both red and green options. This is great for low light environments.

High-quality durability…

There is a noticeable difference in the overall durability between this model and some others on our list. The body is composed of aircraft-grade 6061 aluminum, and it is sealed with a nitrogen-charged tube. However, it’s only water and fog-resistant, not completely waterproof, according to the ratings given.

Still, for the price, this is one of the best mil-dot reticle scopes for mini 14 rifles.

Monstrum Tactical 3-12x42 AO Rifle Scope
Our rating:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)


Pros

  • 3-12 x 42mm.
  • Adjustable reticle illumination.
  • Five levels of brightness in both red and green.
  • Adjustable objective lens.
  • Priced aggressively.

Cons

  • Not the clearest image.

6 Burris Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Riflescope – Best Long Range Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

For those looking for something a touch nicer, we would recommend the Fullfield II Plex Riflescope from Burris. This is back up at the upper ends of our price range, but it’s still nowhere near as expensive as many other scopes on the market.

What makes this scope so good…

If hunting is your thing, then you might like the Ballistic Plex reticle featured on this scope. According to the manufacturer, it is “the most simple, effective, and elegant trajectory-compensating reticle for hunting”. We just might have to agree with this, as we also found it to be perfect for the task.

The scope is composed of a single piece construction. It features a reinforced chamber with quad-seal seals. The lenses sport a Hi-Lume and are multi-coated for clarity. We also like that this scope is water, fog, and shockproof. It’s even backed by a Forever Warranty. This suggests quality that will stand up to the test of time, which is exactly what most hunters are looking for.

But there is a downside…

This particular model tends to scratch more easily than some others. However, when it comes to functionality, we have no real complaints.

Burris 4.5-14x42mm Fullfield II Ballistic Plex Riflescope
Our rating:4.6 out of 5 stars (4.6 / 5)


Pros

  • 4.5-14 x 42mm.
  • Hi-Lume and multi-coated lenses.
  • Water, fog, and shockproof.
  • Highly durable.
  • Great for long-distance shooting.

Cons

  • Scratches easily.

7 Nikon 16525 P-Tactical Riflescope .223 3-9×40 – Best Weatherproof Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

When it comes to high-quality lenses, there are a few names that jump to mind. One of those is likely Nikon, who are well known for their camera, binocular, and scope lenses. In fact, they produced a P-Tactical Riflescope that easily makes our list of the best mini 14 ranch rifle scopes.

Do you want a scope with the best lenses available?

Of course, you do, we all do. And the experts at Nikon Sports Optics have designed one for us. This scope features a BDC 600 reticle with Spot On Ballistic Technology. You’ll be able to locate the essential aiming points for the exact caliber and load type you’re shooting.

This will not only help you bring home the prize, but it also helps you improve your shooting skills over time. We absolutely love this feature.

What about weatherproofing?

Yes, Nikon has you covered in bad weather as well. This scope is water, fog, and shockproof. It also features a generous and consistent eye relief. You’ll be safe and comfortable while sighting in your next kill.


Pros

  • 3-9 x 40mm.
  • Quick focus eyepiece.
  • Water, fog, and shockproof.
  • BDC 600 reticle.
  • Spot On Ballistic Technology.

Cons

  • Not the best scope for ambient light.

8 Vortex Optics Crossfire II 2-7×32 Riflescope – Best Entry Level Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

Another option from Vortex Optics is their CF2-31002 scope. This is also known as their Crossfire II Scout Riflescope. And we would recommend this as one of the best entry-level scopes for mini 14 ranch rifles.

Is this scope much different from the other Vortex scope we reviewed?

No, in fact, we could find very little difference between the models. This model is crafted from a solid block of aircraft-grade aluminum. The durability that this provides is exactly what you’d expect for the price point.

The O-rings help keep out the moisture, dust, and debris, which also helps with keeping the whole thing waterproof. There is also the same fast-focus eyepiece and V-Plex reticle, as previously described.

But is this the best scope for ranch rifles?

It just might be exactly what you need, yes. This scope also has the resettable MOA turrets, and multi-coated lenses.


Pros

  • 2-7 x 32mm.
  • V-Plex MOA Reticle.
  • One-piece aircraft-grade aluminum tube.
  • Fully multi-coated lenses.
  • Fast-focus eyepiece.
  • Resettable MOA turrets.

Cons

  • Some distortion at max magnification.

9 TruGlo Tru-Brite 1-6x24mm Riflescope – Best Mini 14 Ranch Rifle Scope for Short Range Shooting

Those looking for a short-range scope will likely love the Tru-Brite Riflescope from TruGlo. This scope offers a 1-6x magnification and bright 24mm objective lens. We think this is one of the best varmint hunting scopes for mini 14 ranch rifles.

But what makes it so good?

Well, for one thing, this scope features a reversible, offset, monolithic 30mm mount. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, this is CNC-machined for ultimate durability. There are also two pre-calibrated BDC turrets in .223 and .308 calibers.

This means that you can line-up targets up to 600 yards away quickly and easily. We also really like the reticle, which is glass-etched and functional, both with and without illumination.

What about eye relief and adjustments?

There is also a generous four-inch eye relief, which makes this a very comfortable scope to use. We bet that you can spend most of the day out there with minimal eye fatigue. You get 1/2 MOA windage or elevation adjustments. There is a durable leaf-spring system with audible clicks, and the whole thing feels rather precise.

In fact, when it comes to precision, this is one of the best red dot scopes for Ruger Mini 14 rifles. It has a Mil-dot reticle that helps you to determine an object’s distance, provides wind-drift aiming references, and is dual-color.


Pros

  • 1-6 x 24mm.
  • Glass etched reticle.
  • Dual-color Mil-dot reticle.
  • Two pre-calibrated turrets.
  • 4” eye relief.
  • 1/2 MOA windage or elevation adjustments.
  • Waterproof and fog proof.

Cons

  • Heavy mount.

10 Crushunt 4×32 Scope Optical Scope – Best Fixed Magnification Scope for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles

The final option in our review of the best scopes is slightly different from the others. This is a Red Chevron Reticle Fiber Optics Scope from Crushunt and is a fixed magnification scope.

Let us explain…

As we will cover in more detail in the buying guide below, the 4x (in the 4×32) refers to 4x magnification. As this is not a range, this scope is fixed at 4x magnification. This means that you won’t be zooming in on your prey, or target.

At the same time, there are some major advantages to fixed magnification scopes. Specifically, the clarity tends to hold better. Check out our buying guide below for more detail on magnification affecting the clarity.

So many great features…

Back to the Crushunt scope, this is suitable for any 20mm RIS weaver standard rail. It’s water, fog, shock, and weatherproof. Plus, it features a real fiber optic that does not require a battery. The clarity is rather good, and we like the red chevron reticle. We can see why a number of shooters would love this scope for target practice.

We also like the ½ inch wind and elevation adjustments. This helps with sighting in your target, which will help you get the shot. Our only real complaints are that it doesn’t hold zero as well as some other options. And the short eye relief sits at only 38mm, which is not the most comfortable in our opinion.

Crushunt 4x32 Scope Optical Scope
Our rating:3.8 out of 5 stars (3.8 / 5)

Pros

  • 4 x 32mm.
  • Red chevron reticle.
  • Fits any 20mm RIS weaver standard rail.
  • 1/2 windage or elevation adjustments.
  • Water, fog, shock, and weatherproof.

Cons

  • Short eye relief.
  • Could hold zero better.

Best Scopes for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles Buying Guide

Best Scopes for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles Buying Guide

As you can see from our review, there are a number of great options to choose from. Everyone has slightly different criteria, but one of these will likely be the best scope for your mini 14 ranch rifle. But before you choose one, let’s consider a few things…

Number Sequence

As you likely noted in the first scope we reviewed (and the rest actually), there is a number sequence that is vital to understanding what you’re purchasing. This is the power of the scope. It tells you how much magnification the scope provides, and the size of the lens.

So, the example from the first product on our list above is 2-7 x 32mm. Here, the scope provides a magnification of anywhere from 2 times up to 7 times magnification from the original size of the target. The 32mm refers to the size of the objective lens through which you are viewing.

Fixed Magnification Scope

best-scopes-for-mini-14-rifle-magnification

Scopes that don’t show a range, such as the final item we looked at, are fixed magnification scopes. As shown in the example mentioned, 4 x 32mm, the magnification is 4 times with a 32mm objective lens.

There is one advantage to these types of scopes. Without needing to account for changes in magnification, the scope tends to be clearer. With other options, like the first one we looked at above, distortion can appear at the extreme high and low magnification settings. This isn’t an issue with fixed magnification scopes.

Size and Clarity of Lens

best-scopes-for-mini-14-rifle-lens

The #mm gives you the size of the lens. Larger diameter objective lenses and pupils will afford greater light transmission. However, you should check a few other aspects of the lens before making your decision.

The clarity of the lens and the coatings given will also greatly affect the scope. You’ll want to ensure that you can clearly see your target, no matter the light conditions. It’s especially important you ensure you have a clear image in low light if you intend to hunt with the scope at dawn or dusk.

Weatherproofing

Yes, this one is obvious. You never know what conditions will be like when you’re out hunting or at an outdoor range. Make sure you don’t regret your purchase, get something with adequate water, fog, and shock protection.

Eye Relief

This refers to the maximum distance between the scope and your eye, which allows you to still see clearly. Due to the recoil issue, you need to leave space between your eye and the scope. If you don’t, you’ll end up with one nasty headache, or worse.

Now, the recoil on the mini 14 is minimal, but we still recommend you consider a comfortable eye relief.

Type of Reticle

best-scopes-for-mini-14-rifle-type

This is one of the final aspects to consider prior to choosing a scope. The best mini 14 ranch rifle scope for you is the one that fits your style. The scopes reviewed above tend to have either standard or a tactical-style reticle, also known as cross-hairs.

Standard cross-hairs are generally preferred for shooting targets at shorter distances. Tactical cross-hairs have marks along the lines for using the scope as a range finder.

Red Dot Scopes

These are great for quick target acquisition. Often with red dot scopes, there is no need for high power magnification. You’ll be able to clearly see the impact point.

So, what are the Best Scopes for Mini 14 Ranch Rifles?

There are many options to choose from, but at least you are now fully informed. We hope that the above buying guide and list of product reviews have helped narrow the decision down for you.

For those looking for our recommendation, well, it’s the…

Redfield Revolution 2-7x33mm Riflescope

It’s a bit more expensive than some of the other options, but the quality and clarity make it well worth it.

Happy Scoping!

5/5 - (81 votes)
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About Nick Oetken

Nick grew up in San Diego, California, but now lives in Arizona with his wife Julie and their five boys.

He served in the military for over 15 years. In the Navy for the first ten years, where he was Master at Arms during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. He then moved to the Army, transferring to the Blue to Green program, where he became an MP for his final five years of service during Operation Iraq Freedom, where he received the Purple Heart.

He enjoys writing about all types of firearms and enjoys passing on his extensive knowledge to all readers of his articles. Nick is also a keen hunter and tries to get out into the field as often as he can.

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