Ever watched a long-range shooting competition and thought, “Wow, how do they do that?” Hitting targets hundreds of yards away takes skill, but it also requires the right tools. A good rifle scope is key! But what if you’re on a budget? Can you still find a great scope for long-range shooting without spending a fortune?
The truth is, finding a quality rifle scope under $500 can feel like a mission. The market is flooded with choices. It’s easy to get lost in technical jargon and end up with a scope that doesn’t perform well. You don’t want to waste your money on something that fogs up, has blurry images, or just doesn’t hold zero. That’s frustrating!
This blog post is your solution! We’ll explore the best rifle scopes for long-range shooting under $500. You’ll learn what features to look for, and we’ll review some top-rated scopes. By the end, you’ll be able to choose a scope that fits your needs and budget, allowing you to hit those long-distance targets with confidence. Get ready to upgrade your shooting game!
Our Top 5 Rifle Scopes For Long-Range Shooting Under $500 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Rifle Scopes For Long-Range Shooting Under $500 Detailed Reviews
1. UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope -for Hunting
Rating: 9.0/10
The UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope is made for hunters and shooters. It works well with many guns, including shotguns and air rifles. This scope lets you see targets far away with a clear view. It has an illuminated reticle that helps you aim, even in low light. The scope also comes with a 20mm mount for easy installation.
What We Like:
- Clear view with adjustable magnification (6-24x).
- Bright and vivid images thanks to the upgraded multi-coated blue/green lens.
- Red and green reticle illumination with adjustable brightness.
- Durable and waterproof design made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy.
- Includes mounting rings for easy setup on a 20mm rail.
- Excellent customer support from UUQ.
What Could Be Improved:
- None apparent based on the provided information.
The UUQ 6-24×50 AO Rifle Scope is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and clear scope. It is built to last and provides features that will enhance your shooting experience.
2. DISCOVERYOPT HD GEN-II 5-30×56 Rifle Optics
Rating: 8.8/10
The DISCOVERYOPT HD GEN-II 5-30×56 Rifle Scope is built for long-range shooting. It’s a First Focal Plane (FFP) scope with a red illuminated reticle. It has a 34mm tube and a zero stop feature. This scope is made for hunting and precision shooting. It helps you aim better at long distances.
What We Like:
- Upgraded optical systems give you bright and clear images.
- The 5-30x magnification with a 56mm objective lets you see far.
- The 0.1 MRAD adjustments help with precise aiming.
- The zero stop helps you easily return to zero.
- The red illuminated reticle has six brightness settings.
- It is fully multi-coated to reduce glare and increase clarity.
- Parallax adjustment makes the image clearer.
- It is waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description does not mention the reticle type.
- The provided information does not state the material used.
This DISCOVERYOPT rifle scope has many great features for long-range shooting. It’s a good choice for hunters and anyone who enjoys precision shooting. You should consider this scope if you need a high-quality optic.
3. Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope
Rating: 9.4/10
The Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Rifle Scope is a great optic for hunters and shooters. It has a V-Brite reticle that uses a battery to light up the center dot. This scope offers a clear view and is easy to use. It is also built to last with its strong construction and excellent warranty.
What We Like:
- The V-Brite reticle is easy to see.
- Long eye relief makes it easy to acquire your target quickly.
- The lenses are fully multi-coated for bright and clear views.
- The scope is waterproof and fogproof.
- It has a lifetime VIP warranty.
- The scope is made from aircraft-grade aluminum.
What Could Be Improved:
- The battery-powered reticle needs a battery.
- The scope may have a limited magnification range for some users.
The Vortex Crossfire II is a reliable scope with many great features. It is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable optic for their rifle.
4. Triton Tempest 6-24×50 First Focal Plane FFP Long-Range Precision Rifle Scope with SecureLock Locking Turrets
Rating: 9.0/10
The Triton Tempest 6-24×50 is a serious scope for long-range shooting. It uses a First Focal Plane (FFP) reticle. This means your holdovers stay accurate at any magnification. The scope is tough and ready for any weather. It has a bright, clear picture and easy-to-use turrets. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced shooter, the Triton Tempest helps you hit your target.
What We Like:
- High magnification lets you see far away targets clearly.
- The FFP reticle is great for precise aiming at any zoom level.
- Bright and clear sight picture with fully multi-coated lenses.
- The illuminated reticle works well in any lighting condition.
- Built tough to handle rain, shock, and fog.
- Easy-to-adjust turrets make it simple to dial in your shots.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the initial setup a bit challenging.
The Triton Tempest is a solid choice for long-range shooters. This scope gives you the features you need to make accurate shots at a distance.
5. SHOTAC Rifle Scope 8.5-25X50
Rating: 8.6/10
The SHOTAC Rifle Scope 8.5-25X50 is built for long-range shooting. It boasts high resolution and can reach targets up to 3000 meters away. This scope is tough, with shockproof features to handle powerful rifles like .223, .308, and .338. It’s also waterproof and fog proof, so it works in any weather. The scope has clear lenses and adjustable focus for better accuracy.
What We Like:
- Clear, fully multicoated lenses give you a bright view.
- The side focus helps you see targets clearly and estimate distances.
- Precise adjustments let you zero in on your target with 1/8 MOA turrets.
- It is very durable with a shock rating of 1,000G’s.
- This scope is waterproof, fog proof, and ready for tough conditions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is not mentioned, so the value is unknown.
- Some users might find the features complex.
Overall, the SHOTAC Rifle Scope looks like a great option for long-range shooters. This scope should provide clear vision and withstand rough use.
Long-Range Rifle Scopes Under $500: Your Buying Guide
Are you ready to shoot long distances? You need a good rifle scope! But which one should you choose? Don’t worry! This guide will help you find the best long-range scope under $500.
Key Features to Look For
You need to find a scope with the right features. These features help you see far away and hit your target.
- Magnification: This shows how much closer the scope brings the target. For long-range shooting, you’ll want a scope with adjustable magnification. Look for scopes with 3-15x, 4-16x, or even higher magnification ranges. The first number is the lowest magnification. The second number is the highest.
- Objective Lens Diameter: This is the size of the front lens. A bigger lens lets in more light. This is great for shooting in low-light conditions. Look for lenses that are at least 40mm or larger.
- Reticle: This is the crosshair or aiming point inside the scope. Many scopes have reticles with markings for windage and elevation. This helps you adjust your shot for distance and wind. Common reticle types include Mil-Dot and BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating).
- Adjustments: Your scope needs adjustments for windage (left and right) and elevation (up and down). Look for scopes with turrets that are easy to use and adjust.
- First Focal Plane (FFP) vs. Second Focal Plane (SFP): The reticle in an FFP scope changes size as you zoom. The reticle in an SFP scope stays the same size. FFP scopes are better for complex calculations at different magnifications. SFP scopes are often simpler and cheaper.
- Eye Relief: This is the distance between your eye and the scope. You want a good eye relief to avoid getting hit by the scope when you shoot. Around 3-4 inches is usually good.
Important Materials
The materials used in a scope affect its durability and performance.
- Body: Most scopes are made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This material is strong and lightweight.
- Lenses: The lenses should be made of high-quality glass. Look for lenses that are multi-coated. This helps improve light transmission and reduce glare.
- Seals: The scope should be sealed to be waterproof and fog-proof. This protects the scope from the elements.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can affect a scope’s quality.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making high-quality scopes. Do some research and read reviews.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind its product.
- Build Quality: Check the scope’s build quality. Is it solid and well-made? Are the adjustments smooth?
- Price: You can get a good scope for under $500. But remember, you usually get what you pay for. A scope that costs more might have better features and quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Long-range scopes are used for many things.
- Hunting: Hunters use these scopes to shoot animals at long distances.
- Target Shooting: Target shooters use them to hit targets at the range.
- Competitive Shooting: Competitive shooters use them to win matches.
- Plinking: You can also use them for fun shooting.
Make sure the scope fits your rifle and your needs. Practice with your scope to get familiar with it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What magnification do I need?
A: It depends on the distance you’re shooting. For long-range, start with at least 3-15x magnification.
Q: What does “FFP” mean?
A: FFP stands for First Focal Plane. The reticle changes size as you zoom.
Q: What does “SFP” mean?
A: SFP stands for Second Focal Plane. The reticle stays the same size.
Q: Is a bigger objective lens better?
A: Yes, a bigger lens lets in more light, which is good for low-light conditions.
Q: How do I know if a scope is waterproof?
A: Look for the manufacturer’s specifications. They will usually state if it is waterproof and fog-proof.
Q: What is eye relief?
A: Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece. It prevents you from getting hit by the scope.
Q: What kind of reticle should I get?
A: That depends on your needs. Mil-Dot and BDC reticles are popular for long-range shooting.
Q: What are turrets?
A: Turrets are the knobs on the scope you use to adjust windage and elevation.
Q: How much should I spend?
A: You can find good scopes under $500. Do some research and read reviews.
Q: How do I mount a scope?
A: You’ll need rings and a base that fits your rifle. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.