Top 13 Best Sniper Scopes In 2023 Reviews

Whether you’re a serious competitor or enjoy long-range hunting and targeting, it’s well worth keeping up-to-date on the best sniper scopes currently on the market 2023. Manufacturers are constantly improving their optics, and in this review, we’ve made sure to include an excellent selection.

Therefore, we’ve got 13 very worthy sniper scopes to look at. We’ll make sure that we clearly lay out all the key specs, as well as the pros and cons, so you scan through the list easily. Then, to finish up, there’s a buyer’s guide to help you make an informed decision on which scope might suit your needs best.

best-sniper-scope

So, let’s go through them and find the perfect sniper scope for you…

Top 13 Best Sniper Scopes Reviews


1 Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes – Best Value for the Money Sniper Scope

Starting with a firm favorite, here is the Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope. We’re looking at the EBR-2C (MOA) version, which has a 4-16x magnification and a 44mm objective.

Good clarity for the price…

Vortex Optics utilize an extra-low dispersion glass and fully multi-coated lenses in its construction. The result is very clear and bright visuals, which is impressive for a scope in this price range.

It’s a precision glass etched reticle design that uses a first focal plane set-up. And the reticle ensures that the subtensions are kept extremely accurate all the way through the 4x magnification range. Furthermore, there’s a built-in precision-glide erector system to ensure smooth magnification changes, even under the harshest of conditions.

Keep on target…

This Vortex scope features tactical turrets and a side parallax knob, which gives full control over windage, elevation, and parallax correction for long-range targeting, with 1/4 MOA adjustments. Also included is a fast-focus eyepiece for quick targeting.

The scope is reputed to hold zero very well. This is due to the single-piece 30mm tube construction that’s shockproof and will easily handle heavy recoils and impacts. In addition, the scope is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to make it both waterproof and fog-proof.

Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our rating:4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)


Pros

  • Extra-low dispersion glass.
  • Precision-glide erector system.
  • Accurate subtensions.
  • Smooth magnification adjustment.
  • Holds zero well.
  • Side parallax knob.
  • Fast-focus eyepiece.

Cons

  • You get crisper visuals if you are willing to spend more.

2 Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

Next up, we have another Vortex Optics offering in the form of the Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescope. We’re looking at the EBR-4 (MOA) version, which has the 1-6x magnification and a 24mm objective.

This is a second focal plane riflescope, which means the reticle will remain the same size at varying magnification settings. It’s a scope that suits close to mid-range sniping, but it should hold up well for long-range targets too.

Laser-etched turrets…

The laser-etched turrets work well for bullet drop and wind compensation. There’s also parallax adjustment and an RZR zero stop function on board. Plus, you can make use of the fiber optic rotation indicator, which helps you keep track of your turret positions.

Easy targeting…

There are hold points built into the reticle with ten intensity levels, with off positions for each setting. This set-up allows you to quickly target at various ranges.

The glass has extra-low dispersion to give you excellent resolution and color fidelity. As well, the optics have XR fully multi-coated lenses to provide efficient light transmission and brightness. Also, Scratch-resistant Armortek coatings have been applied to the lenses to also keep oil, dust, and dirt at bay.

Come rain, come shine…

Lastly, the Viper is O-ring sealed and argon-purged to make the scope waterproof and fog-proof. Plus, the main housing is a solid, yet lightweight, single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum construction for durability in any conditions.

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)


Pros

  • Laser-etched turrets.
  • Parallax adjustment.
  • RZR zero stop function.
  • Various hold points.
  • XR fully multi-coated lenses.
  • Armortek coatings.
  • O-ring sealed/argon-purged.

Cons

  • Not the best option for long-range targeting.

3 Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes

And now in our Best Sniper Scopes review, we have another Vortex Optics production with this Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescope. It’s the VMR-1 (MOA) version and comes with 4-16x magnification and is ideal for long-range hunting and tactical shooting. This is because the VMR-1 (MOA) Reticle is perfect for accurate holds at extended ranges.

The optics have extra-low dispersion and are fully multi-coated to deliver high-contrasting colors and great resolution. The XR coating applied helps to gather light efficiently, so you get bright visuals in various light conditions. While the Armortek coating is in place to protect the lenses from scratches, as well as dust and dirt.

Finger click adjustments…

Target turrets have been added to this scope so that you can make precise finger click adjustments to suit targeting at various ranges. There’s also a CRS zero stop function on board so you can dial temporary elevation corrections and reliably return to zero.

You also benefit from side parallax adjustment to remove parallax and to focus more accurately. Furthermore, the fast-focus eyepiece also lets you focus on targets with rapid and fluid ease.

Durable and reliable…

Finally, it’s good to know that this system is O-ring sealed, and Argon purged to prevent water and fog from messing up your visuals.

Vortex Optics Viper HS-T Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)


Pros

  • VMR-1 (MOA) Reticle.
  • XR coatings.
  • Armortek coating.
  • CRS zero stop function.
  • Fast-focus eyepiece.
  • O-ring sealed.
  • Argon purged.

Cons

  • There may be some chromatic aberration at high magnification.

4 Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope – Best Sniper Scope for Low Light

The Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope with MIL-Dot Crosshair reticle is offered with either a green or amber coloring.

Dual-illumination system…

It uses tritium aiming-point illumination and advanced fiber-optic technology to speed up your targeting and acquisitions. And the system will automatically adjust the brightness of your aiming point to suit light conditions at a given time. Also, the fiber-optic aspect of illumination is battery-free, which is always a plus.

There is also a manual override function so you can change the brightness according to your specific preferences. Plus, it has zero forward emission built-in, so no illumination will be shown through the objective facing a target.

Crystal clear…

The lenses are multi-coated to allow for excellent light absorption and clarity. And, like the Vortex Optics Viper we just reviewed, this is a second focal plane scope, meaning the reticle size will remain constant at different magnification settings.

It is constructed with aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it lightweight and capable of handling rugged use. It’s also waterproof up to a depth of 10 feet.

All adjustments are made with 1/4 MOA clicks, and there’s 40 MOA of total travel for precise adjustments. And the field of view is 19.4 – 5.2 feet at 100 yards, which can work very well for hunters.

Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20x50 Riflescope
Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)


Pros

  • Dual-illumination system.
  • Battery-free fiber-optic illumination.
  • Automatic brightness adjustment.
  • Zero forward emission.
  • Multi-coated lenses.
  • Aircraft-grade aluminum tube.
  • Waterproof.

Cons

  • You might prefer a smaller objective.

5 Steiner T5Xi 5-25x 56mm Riflescope, w/SCR Reticle – Best Competition Sniper Scope

The Steiner T5Xi 5-25x 56mm Riflescope is a one-piece oversize 34mm tube design with exceptional strength and durability. It features a large 56mm objective lens and powerful 5-25x magnification.

Competition reticle…

The SCR reticle built into this scope is designed for competitive use and precision shooting. There’s an extended illumination area, plus there are windage and holdover lines to keep you precisely on target. Also, you get 1/10-mil ranging brackets that allow for accurate ranging.

You will also benefit from a throw lever, which lets you make quick magnification changes. And, the diopter adjustment range is from +2 to -3. Another great feature is that the built-in second rotation indicator ensures that after the first 120 clicks, the mil numbers change on the scale. This helps you to not get lost on the dial when long-range targeting.

Lasts a lifetime…

Tenebraex lens covers are included in this package to prevent moisture and dust ruining the lenses. Plus, you get a Heritage Warranty, where the company will repair or replace defective scopes or parts at no charge for the lifetime of this scope. Bear in mind, loss, damage, or theft is not covered.

Steiner T5Xi 5-25x 56mm Riflescope
Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)


Pros

  • Long-range Special Competition Reticle (SCR).
  • Windage and holdover lines.
  • Built-in throw lever.
  • Second rotation indicator.
  • 1/10-mil ranging brackets.
  • Tenebraex lens covers.

Cons

  • May take some extra tweaking to focus properly.

6 NightForce NXS Tactical Scope – Best Hunting Sniper Scope

The NightForce NXS Tactical Scope is designed for extreme long-range shooting due to its broad magnification range and wide field of view. It has red illumination and exceptional optical integrity.

It has four inches of eye relief and 100 MOA elevation travel. With these features, you can expect to accurately hit targets 2000 yards out with .50 BMG rounds, for example.

The specs…

It weighs in at 32 ounces and uses a 56mm objective lens. It’s a second focal plane riflescope, meaning the reticle size remains the same throughout the magnification range. There’s also a decent 3.9 inches of eye relief, and it has a 4.7 – 17.5 feet at 100 yards field of view.

The construction is 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum, making it very strong yet lightweight. Additionally, it is made both waterproof and therefore has weather-resistant properties. There is also a proprietary titanium beta erector spring that gives you three to four times the spring pressure of other similar scopes.

Simple operation…

Lastly, there is a ZeroStop function version available, which lets you always return your scope to zero very easily.


Pros

  • 100 MOA elevation travel.
  • Broad magnification range.
  • Wide field of view.
  • Can hit 2000+ yard targets.
  • 3.9 inches of eye relief.
  • Weather-resistant.
  • 6061-T6 Aircraft Grade Aluminum.

Cons

  • None.

7 Toric UHD 4-20×50 30mm MOA/MOA Long Range Riflescope with Illuminated Reticle

Next, we have the TORIC UHD 4-20×50 30mm MOA/MOA Long Range Riflescope, which comes with an illuminated reticle. Built-in is TRACT’s advanced Ultra High Definition optical system that uses SCHOTT high transmission multi-coated lenses.

Exceptional visuals…

It also has extra-low dispersion glass, which provides supers sharp and bright imagery. You’ll also get a large eye box and quick focus eyepiece to play with, which gives you four inches of eye relief throughout the 4-20 magnification range.

It’s constructed with a 30mm tube to give the scope excellent strength and durability. Plus, it allows for a greater adjustment range, which is perfect for long-range targeting.

Bullet drop compensation…

This is a first focal plane scope which places the reticle in front of the erector system. This supports bullet drop compensation and ranging at various magnification settings.

The turrets can be manipulated with 0.25 MOA precision adjustments. And, there’s a locking system to keep your adjustments securely in place when shooting out in the field. As well, there is a Multi Rotation Zero Stop function, which prevents you from getting lost when dialing in those long-range shots.

Toric UHD 4-20x50 30mm MOA/MOA Long Range Riflescope
Our rating:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Pros

  • Built for long-range accuracy.
  • Extra low dispersion glass.
  • Large eye box.
  • Quick focus.
  • Strong 30mm tube design.
  • 0.25 MOA adjustments.
  • Multi Rotation Zero Stop function.

Cons

  • You might prefer a second focal plane set-up.

8 Burris Optics XTR II Rifle Scope – Most Versatile Sniper Scope

Next, in our Best Sniper Scopes review, we’re checking out this Burris Optics XTR II Rifle Scope. It has the 5-25x magnification and uses a large 50mm objective lens. It’s also considered a multipurpose scope that is great for all kinds of long-range targeting and acquisitions.

Clear and bright…

High-quality optical glass has been used in this Burris for super clear and bright visuals. Plus, they’ve incorporated index-matched Hi-Lume® multi-coatings, which aid in low light performance.

There’s also an illuminated reticle that helps reduce the time to find your target in any lighting condition and hugely increases accuracy when targeting in the dark. And there are 11 brightness settings to play with to get your visuals just right.

Rugged design…

It’s a waterproof design that also has been nitrogen-filled to prevent fogging in cold and rainy conditions. Therefore, the 34mm tube is strong and durable enough to keep the scope functioning consistently out in the field.

The 5x zoom system is very versatile and has a large field of view. Also, there are Zero Click Stop adjustment knobs in place, so you don’t have to count your clicks.

Practical and versatile…

Lastly, the advanced windage and elevation adjustments in this design are great for precision competition shooting. But they should also work well for hunters and general long-range targeting down at the range.

Burris Optics XTR II Rifle Scope
Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)


Pros

  • Clear and bright visuals.
  • Index-matched Hi-Lume® multi-coatings.
  • 11 brightness settings.
  • Waterproof and fog proof.
  • Zero Click Stop system.
  • Versatile 5x zoom.
  • Precise windage/elevation adjustments.

Cons

  • You might prefer a smaller objective.

9 Nikon Black FX1000

The Nikon Black FX1000 4-16X50 Matte FX-MOA version uses a glass etched ranging reticle. It’s a first focal plane design that can be used effectively to estimate target size, range, elevation holdover, and windage at various magnification settings.

It’s made with a strong 30mm tube and high-speed turrets that have an integrated Zero Stop function. And the turrets can be precisely adjusted with 0.25 MOA clicks, and there’s a 90 MOA adjustment range to contend with.

Find your target fast…

There’s a Quick Focus eyepiece in place so you can find targets quickly and easily. And, Nikon has added a smooth-turning aluminum ring with a rubber eye guard to make the process even more fluid and predictable.

Furthermore, you benefit from a side parallax adjustment, which lets you make adjustments without changing your shooting position. Also, there’s a constant generous eye relief so that you can keep your brow safe when firing heavy recoil rounds.

Everything-proof!

It’s been made shockproof to deal with heavy recoils. Plus, the scope is O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged to make it both waterproof and fog proof. So this scope is very capable of handling rugged environments.

Nikon Black FX1000
Our rating:4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)


Pros

  • Precise 0.25 MOA adjustments.
  • Strong 30mm tube design.
  • High-speed turrets.
  • Zero Stop system.
  • Quick Focus Eyepiece.
  • Side parallax adjustment.
  • O-ring sealed/nitrogen purged.

Cons

  • The glass is good but could be improved.

10 FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Scope W Front AO Adjustment

Now we have this FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Scope, which comes with a red, blue, or green illuminated mil-dot reticle. It also has an extended sunshade added to it for targeting in bright light, and a heavy-duty ring mount is included.

Build-quality…

Constructed with aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, this scope is tough, durable, and lightweight. The ball bearing turrets make the adjustments smooth and predictable, with 0.25 MOA click adjustments giving you excellent precision.

As well, the turrets are lockable to keep your windage and elevation adjustments firmly in place. And, this scope has been recoil tested and successfully works with heavy recoil rounds such as .50 caliber.

Far into the distance…

The objective is a front focusing adjustable type, which makes it easy to focus precisely on long-range targets. Plus, the 6-24x magnification is designed for extreme long-range targeting.

The weight is 26.2 ounces, and the eye relief is a reasonable 3.1 to 3.3 inches. However, it does require a CR2032 3V battery, and the battery it is supplied with doesn’t work that well – so it would be a good idea to replace it. Also, the field of view is a little limited compared to other sniper scopes, which doesn’t make it the best option for long-range hunting.

FSI Sniper 6-24x50mm Scope W Front AO Adjustment
Our rating:4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)

Pros

  • Illuminated mil-dot reticle.
  • Aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum.
  • Recoil tested.
  • Lockable turrets.
  • 0.25 MOA clicks.
  • 6-24x magnification.

Cons

  • Battery life is not so good.
  • Limited field of view.

11 Leupold Mark 5HD M1C3 FFP Impact 60 Riflescope 176447 – Best Tactical Sniper Scope

Moving on, we have the Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 (35mm) M1C3 FFP Impact 60 Riflescope. It’s a very lightweight and compact construction that is made both waterproof and fog proof. Also, a lens shade and cover are included in the package.

The 5:1 zoom ratio gives you excellent visuals for long-range shots, and the Twilight Max HD Management System gives you edge-to-edge clarity, low light performance, and superb contrast.

Tactically orientated…

There is a new M1C3 ZeroLock adjustment feature built into this scope that has a three turn dial at .25 MOA per click. This allows for precise tracking and return to zero capabilities.

Furthermore, a fast-focus eyepiece has been added, allowing tactical shooters to find their targets quickly and easily. And, there’s precision side focus for parallax too. Plus, the high-speed power selector with an integrated throw lever makes the scope’s functionality super smooth and reliable.

Built to last…

The 30mm tube construction is very solid and lightweight and is backed by Leupold’s Full Lifetime Guarantee – if you should have any issues. Ultimately, this a great sniper scope and is ideal for the tactically minded shooter.


Pros

  • Waterproof and fog proof.
  • Twilight Max HD Management System.
  • M1C3 ZeroLock adjustments feature.
  • Fast focus eyepiece.
  • 0.25 MOA clicks.
  • High-speed power selector.
  • Full Lifetime Guarantee.

Cons

  • Might be too compact for some shooters.

12 Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II 5-25×50 Illum G2B Mil-Dot Scope 201053

Next up, let’s check out the Burris Xtreme Tactical XTR II, which has the 5-25x magnification and a 50mm objective lens. It also has an illuminated G2B Mil-Dot Reticle with 11 brightness settings, and there’s a battery saver position between each setting.

The scope is O-ring sealed and nitrogen filled to make it waterproof and fog proof. – which is useful in cold and rainy environments. As well, high-grade glass is used to give you excellent optical clarity at long-range, as well as brightness and good durability.

Return to zero…

The Zero Click Stop adjustment knobs added to this design enable you to quickly return to zero without needing to count your clicks. And, the internal assembly has been precision-gauged and hand-fitted to ensure all quality standards are met. This process also ensures the riflescope keeps the point of impact in the magnification consistent, even after heavy recoil.

The 34mm solid one-piece tube construction is very durable and long-lasting. It can withstand shocks, drops, and, most importantly, the heavy recoil from large calibers.


Pros

  • Illuminated G2B Mil-Dot Reticle.
  • 11 brightness settings.
  • Waterproof and fog proof.
  • Zero Click Stop adjustment.
  • Precision-gauged/hand-fitted.
  • 34mm one-piece tube.

Cons

  • Slightly on the heavy side.

13 EOTech Vudu 5-25×50 FFP Riflescope – MD3 Reticle (MRAD) VDU5-25FFMD3 – Best Short Sniper Scope

The last scope we’re checking out in our review of the Best Sniper Scopes is this EOTech Vudu 5-25×50 FFP Riflescope, which is one of the shortest long-range orientated scopes on the market. Therefore it should work great with short platform sniper rifles. Additionally, because it’s so short, it accepts clip-on night vision or thermal devices comfortably.

It weighs in at 29.5 ounces and uses an MD3 Reticle. It’s also a first focal plane design, and a one-piece 34mm solid tube is used in its construction. The field of view is a very reasonable 23.3 – 4.7 feet at 100 yards, and you get around 3.7 inches of eye relief.

Unique turret design…

The EOTech Vudu uses a unique push/pull elevation turret locking system to keep your settings solidly in place when long-range targeting. Plus, there is EOTech’s Zero Stop system that makes adjustments easy, and you’ll have the ability to instantly return to zero.

The MD3 reticle is illuminated and uses CR2032 batteries to power it for potentially 500 hours if used on the number 5 brightness setting. There’s also an auto power-down to sleep mode, which occurs over a two-hour window.

What’s in the box?

Included in this Japanese made scope package is a lens cloth, battery, sunshade, throw lever, product user manual, and separate reticle manual too.


Pros

  • Short and compact design.
  • Turret locking system.
  • Zero Stop system.
  • Illuminated MD3 reticle.
  • Made in Japan.
  • Auto power-down to sleep mode.

Cons

  • You may prefer a second focal plane set-up.

Best Sniper Scopes Buying Guide

Best Sniper Scopes Buying Guide

As you can see, there are a whole array of different scopes suitable for long-range shooting available on the market. They vary in price, size, reticle type, application, and much, much more – so which one should you choose?

In this section, we will run through the different sniper scope options and let you know what they are best suited for in terms of long-range shooting.

Best Sniper Scope for Hunting

One of the key aspects we think of with a good long-range hunting rifle is the field of view. If, for example, you are hunting deer, you’ll know that their movement can be rapid and unexpected. Having a wide field of view can, therefore, help you keep the target in your sights.

We would, therefore, choose the…

NightForce NXS Tactical Scope

This is an excellent choice due to its maneuverability and tactical capabilities, as well as it’s wide field of view. It’s also is proven capable of hitting targets 2000 meters out with .50 BMG rounds.

Best Sniper Scope for Competitions

If competition shooting is your thing, then obviously pinpoint long-range accuracy has to be at the top of your agenda. Many scopes fit the bill in this article; however, we think the most suitable option for competitions is the…

Steiner T5Xi 5-25x 56mm Riflescope, w/SCR Reticle

This scope has a Special Competition Reticle (SCR) and powerful 5-25x magnification to give you excellent targeting capabilities. Plus, it’s a very sturdy scope design with some high-quality features such as an extended illumination area and 1/10-mil ranging brackets.

A Great All-Rounder!

You may want a scope that can comfortably deal with long-range shots, but will also serve as a good all-round choice for various shooting applications? If so, we recommend the…

Burris Optics XTR II Rifle Scope

…as it is made for both tactical and long-distance shooting. It has a large field of view, which is great for hunting and tactical work, yet the advanced windage and elevation adjustments also work well for precision competition shooting.

Best Value for the Money

If you have a particular budget in mind but want a scope that gives you excellent bang for the buck, then we suggest the…

Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope

This offers a lot in terms of glass quality and features for long-range shooting in a very reasonable price bracket. It holds zero well, has side parallax, smooth magnification adjustments, and a fast-focus eyepiece, to name just a few of its impressive features.

What about Illumination?

If you enjoy long-range targeting at night or in low light conditions, you’ll obviously need some decent illumination in your reticle. And the most obvious choice for these purposes has to be the…

Trijicon TR23 AccuPoint 5-20×50 Riflescope

It has an excellent dual-illumination reticle that works very effectively in low light conditions and darkness. The system also automatically changes the brightness of the reticle for you to suit the environment. Although you can choose to do this manually if you prefer.

So, what are the Best Sniper Scopes?

Thank you for checking out our review of the top 13 sniper scopes that are currently available. And we hope that you now have a better idea of which long-range scope will suit your needs the best.

As for our recommendation, well, we would go for the…

NightForce NXS Tactical Scope

We like that it is an excellent choice for long-range shooting, but can also be maneuvered easily for hunting and tactical work. Plus, it has a broad magnification range so you can shoot just as confidently at shorter distances.

Happy and safe shooting.

5/5 - (75 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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