Today’s post shines a light on the best shotgun scopes. One of the most popular firearms among shooters today is the shotgun. This is particularly because of its versatility as it is ideal for various purposes including hunting, self-defense and target shooting.
For long-range hunting or shooting, it is important to mount a scope on your shotgun. Having a shotgun scope result in an enormous improvement in your hunting or shooting as you are accorded much-needed accuracy.
A shotgun scope is your perfect companion for aiming at your targets and getting on to them seamlessly and in less time. Finding the best shotgun scope can be daunting as the market is flooded with numerous options. For that reason, we have compiled a list of the best shotgun scopes to make it easier for you. Let’s have a look!
#1) Bushnell Trophy 3-9x 50mm Multi-X Reticle Riflescope
Looking for an excellent optic that will help you realize the full potential of your slug gun. Look no further than Bushnell Trophy 3-9x50mm Multi-X Reticle Riflescope.
The scope tops our list of the best shotgun scopes due to its versatility making it suitable for deer, elk and varmint hunting. With a 3-9x50mm magnification, you are guaranteed very vivid long-range targeting capabilities.
The scope has a one-piece design that allows you more space to have a perfect shooting position. This one-piece design has an integrated saddle and combines with dry nitrogen filling to maximize durability giving the scope the capability to stand up to elements and abuse from recoil after every shot.
Equipped with fully multi-coated optics that allow maximum light transmission, this scope delivers clear and bright images even in twilight hunting, when most of the games are normally more active.
Besides that, the scope has turret-controlled adjustments for windage and elevation settings. These adjustments use 1/4 MOA type which is moved seamlessly with the fingertips for easy precision.
It is also supported by a fast-focus eyepiece which is a handful when making adjustments to the scope. You can focus on your target in a short time and shoot.
Features
- Optics are fully multi-coated
- Superior light transmission
- One-piece design
- Multi-X reticle that is of high quality
- Fogproof, waterproof and shockproof
- Dry nitrogen filling
- 1/4 MOA adjustments for windage and elevation
- Durable construction
- Fast focus eyepiece
#2) Vortex Strike Eagle 1-8×24 Riflescope
The Vortex Optics is another best option if you are looking for quality, clarity and sharp images. Look no further if you want a scope that gets the job done effectively.
This is a perfect scope for multiple applications such as hunting and tactical shooting. The versatility and exception performance cements Strike Eagle 1-8×24 name among the best shotgun scopes.
The outstanding performance of this scope is backed by an advanced optical system. Fully multi-coated lenses deliver astonishing color fidelity, clarity and exceptional resolution.
This means that even in low light conditions, you will have a clear view of your target. In addition to that, this scope has XD Lens Elements lead to sharp and clear images by increasing resolution and color fidelity.
As one of the best shotgun scopes, this optic harbor incredible features that promote dependable performance. It has a true one-power on the low end of its zoom range which ensures the fast acquisition of the target in close quarters situations. A fast-focus eyepiece allows for easy and quick focusing on the reticle.
For maximum versatility, the scope has a glass-etched, illuminated AR-BDC3 reticle that comes in handy in rapid shooting at both short and long ranges. A thread-in throw lever also enables you lock in targets faster which is resourceful when making multiple shots. Truly, this is one of the best shotgun scopes that always get the job done.
Reliable performance is synonymous with this riflescope as it is fully waterproof, shockproof and fog proof so that you can hunt even in extreme conditions knowing that your tool is completely protected. To maximize strength and resilience, this scope has an aircraft-grade aluminum construction and a one-piece tube design as well.
Features
- Illuminated reticle
- Waterproof, shockproof and fogproof
- 5mm eye relief
- Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Throw lever
- Ideal for diverse applications
- Aircraft-grade aluminum casing
- One-piece tube construction
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Glass etched reticle
- Lens cloth, flip caps, CR2032 battery included
#3) Vortex Optics Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 Riflescope
Vortex is known to make phenomenal scopes and Razor LHT 3-15×42 is no exception. Built with durability in mind, the riflescope has an aircraft-grade aluminum construction that bestows rigidity and toughness to deliver reliable performance for many years.
A single-piece tube design enhances functionality as alignment is flawless enhancing the accuracy and visual performance while ensuring strength and resilience as well.
The other positive attribute of this riflescope is a top-notch optical system. It features XP Plus fully multi-coated optics for superior transmission of light for sharpness and clarity even in dim conditions. The lenses are protected by Armortek coating to keep them clear for life as it is scratch-resistant and keeps dirt and oil away.
One major highlight of this shotgun scope is the variable intensity illuminated center dot which makes the dot more visible in low light conditions. This enables you to have the perfect shot regardless of whether it is dusk or dawn.
The rugged design is another attribute that make Razor HD LHT 3-15×42 score highly among the best shotgun scope. The riflescope is completely waterproof and fogproof so you can hunt in any weather condition knowing that the interior of the scope is protected from any moisture and debris that may impede optimal vision.
It is also shockproof thanks to its robust construction so it withstands recoil and impact. Featuring the RevStop Zero System, this incredible scope ensures that you make the most of your accuracy in the field for killer shots when in action.
What’s more to like of this scope? A locking mechanism that deters unintended adjustments and elevation turret that ensures fast, precise and easy to read elevation adjustments. Without a doubt, this is one of the best shotgun scopes for anyone keen on improving their shooting skills.
Features
- Illuminated center dot
- 30mm tube diameter
- Anodized matte finish
- Waterproof, fog proof and shockproof
- RevStop Zero System
- Armortek coating on the lenses
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Single-piece tube design for optimal alignment & visual performance
- Second focal plane reticle
- XR Plus fully multi-coated optics
- Variable magnification
#4) Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40 Matte Riflescope
Vortex dominates in the world of optics and their riflescopes are among the best shotgun scopes in the market. The Vortex Diamondback 3-9×40 Matte Riflescope is a favorite for many hunters as it delivers impeccably thanks to the mind-blowing features it comes with. If you are looking for a scope to help you execute killer shots with you slug gun, this is the perfect extra eye to help in the execution.
Since scopes are used outdoors, they must be durable to withstand anything thrown at them. Vortex understands this perfectly no wonder this riflescope has a robust one-inch tube made of aircraft-grade aluminum.
This material is one of the popular choices used by manufacturers due to its strength and resilience. To add to the durability, the scope has a single-piece tube construction. You can thus be sure that your scope will last for many years.
This scope has optics that are fully multi-coated for maximum light transmission leading to clear and bright images in all lighting conditions. Argon purging design makes this model waterproof. It is nonetheless waterproof and shockproof to protect the interior from any moisture and withstand any recoil and impact respectively.
Moreover, the scope has pop-up dials for easy and precise changes to the windage and elevation. A fast-focus eyepiece is also another highlight of this unit and allows for easy and quick reticle focusing. All these astonishing features mean that the riflescope will suffice during the big game, muzzleloader and slug shotgun applications.
Features
- Hard anodized finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated optics
- Waterproof for reliable performance
- Fog proof and shockproof for flawless performance
- Aircraft-grade aluminum housing
- Second Focal Plane Reticle
- Single-piece tube design
- Capped reset turrets
- Lens covers and lens cloth included
#5) Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope
If you are looking for a robust, accurate, and reliable scope, look no further. Leupold Mark 3HD 4-12x40mm Riflescope is what you need to change your shooting for the better. Constructed with high definition, calcium fluoride lenses, this scope delivers unmatched clarity no matter the magnification level.
It also has an Elite Optical System for superior transmission of light and resolution, while minimizing glare at the same time. Its reticle is illuminated to help in the fast acquisition of the target in dim conditions.
For shockproof, waterproof and fog-proof performance, this scope is made using advanced internal gases and seals that withstand harsh temperatures, variations in elevation and shocks so that the interior of the scope stays protected from moisture and clear. This scope has all the features that shooting enthusiasts demand all-day performance.
There is also a ZeroStop system that prevents accidental dials by creating a backstop when returning the dial to zero. Leupold’s Custom Dial System allows you to customize your turret to your precise ballistics and environmental conditions.
This scope is nonetheless equipped with a side focus that is meant to make adjustments to the scope’s parallax, which makes the reticle clearer and flawless when shooting at various distances.
Features
- Waterproof and fog proof
- Ultra-lightweight structure
- Ergonomic power selector
- Lenses are scratch-resistant
- 40mm objective lens
- Shockproof
- Variable magnification
- Elite Optical System
- Durable construction
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Choosing the Best Shotgun Scopes
Durability
A shotgun scope should be able to withstand various weather conditions and situations. It should ensure extreme hunting settings as shotguns are commonly used for hunting games such as turkey, rabbits and deer. Shotguns additionally have strong recoils that scopes should be able to withstand.
Magnification
Scopes usually have either fixed or variable magnification settings. Scopes with fixed magnification have a set parallax that provides reliable performance. They are smaller and best for beginners.
Variable magnification scopes on the other hand let you change zooming settings depending on the range. This gives the hunter more options. On the downside, these scopes are heavier and more difficult to use. Also, anything from 4x to 12x magnification should suffice.
Eye Relief
It is pertinent that you choose a scope with a long eye relief to prevent injuries as shotguns have a pretty strong recoil. A long eye relief makes it easy and quick to acquire the target, especially when hunting targets that are in motion.
Image Sharpness
A good shotgun scope should offer images that are crisp and clear. This is contributed by the type of lenses that the model uses. Good models have multicoated lenses which ensure maximum light transmission leading to bright, clear and sharp images in all lighting conditions.
Ease of Use
Models vary in terms of their use. Some are easy to use while others are difficult. Go through the reviews of a model before buying it. It is not worth it to spend money on a unit that is not user-friendly.
You might also want to keep things simple. Not all fancy units are effective. Ensure that you pick a functional model so that you have an easy time when shooting.
Best Shotgun Scopes FAQs
Q: Can I Mount a Riflescope on a Shotgun?
A: Yes. There is no reason why you can’t use a rifle scope on a shotgun as long as you can physically mount it. There are however several limitations that come with using a rifle scope on a shotgun and it should rarely be your first choice.
Rather, it is best to spend some extra money to get the right scope for the first time. But there is no reason why you can’t mount a rifle scope on a shotgun as long as you know what you are doing.
Q: Can You Put a Red Dot Sight on a Shot Gun?
A: Yes. Putting a red dot sight on a shotgun is possible and is beneficial as it helps you engage targets easier. It gives you a better aim during hunts. You don’t have to worry about losing your sight in dim light or forested conditions.
Q: Is There a Difference Between Riflescopes and Shotgun Scopes?
A: Yes, there are. A shotgun scope has a different reticle from a rifle scope as the shotgun shoots slugs while the rifle scope shoots smaller bullets. The shotgun scope accounts for the fact that the slug will drop faster than a bullet.
They also differ in terms of magnification. The magnification of a shotgun scope is less than that of a rifle scope which can magnify up to 30x. This is because a shotgun has a different firing range from a rifle.
Conclusion
The scope that you choose determines how good you will be at shooting. You thus can’t afford to have the wrong model. To be certain that you’ve settled for the right tool, get any of the shotgun scopes elucidated above as they are attributed to the best features such as heavy-duty performance, durability, great quality materials and many more.