Hunters love a good challenge. Elk hunting turns out to be challenging and incomparable to other prey hunting. It requires full dedication and a level of seriousness as Elks are very swift, intelligent and have an exemplary sense of smell, sight and hearing.
Additionally, big game hunting is not well harnessed and is a very enjoyable way to spend outdoor time more so if hunting gives you some adrenaline rush. To take an elk down, you need a good scope. Below we have reviewed the best scopes for Elk hunting to make the task less daunting for you. Let’s dive in!
1) CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope
If you are looking for a riflescope that can perform in any condition or environment, then the CVLIFE Rifle would be a good choice. It has fully multi-coated lenses that enhance light transmission resulting in bright and clear images. The lenses are specially designed to allow penetration of light within the visible spectrum which boosts clarity and resolution.
The other facet that makes this scope rank among the best riflescope for elk hunting is a tough construction. The tube is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum bestowing rigidity and durability to the scope.
The fully sealed O-rings and nitrogen purging work hand in hand to deliver reliable performance across different weather conditions. No need to worry about internal fogging disrupting your vision during your hunting escapades even in the mountainous regions where the Elks are mostly hiding.
This riflescope has a magnification of 3-9X and an objective lens diameter of 40mm to allow you to get the best shot of your prey. The riflescope also boasts intuitive turrets that make precise elevation and windage adjustments for pinpoint accuracy.
Features
- Variable magnification to cover various distances amicably.
- The riflescope performs excellently in any weather condition.
- Fully multi-coated lenses to increase light transmission.
- It gives high contrast and brilliant images.
- Has a 40mm diameter objective lens.
- A stable reticle that does not rotate while you are making adjustments.
- Sealed and filled with nitrogen to make it rainproof and fogproof.
- Scratch-resistant lenses stay clear for life
- A smart design that makes the rifle shockproof
- Turrets give the hunter an elevation allowance and precise windage correction.
2) Vortex Viper HS 4-16x44mm Rifle Scope
The Viper HS 4-16×44 riflescope brings to the table an advanced optical system and an array of impressive features that will make your elk hunting mission one to remember. The scope will take you whether other riflescopes have tried to no avail.
First-up, the scope boasts exceptional versatility thanks to its 4x zoom range. With this scope, you can take down big games from various distances with utmost precision. Bag this riflescope for your next expedition and you will not be disappointed.
When it comes to the optical system, this Viper HS riflescope incorporates the best-in-class optics. The lenses are made of XD glass for increased resolution, color fidelity and high-contrast images.
For optimal light transmission, the lenses are fully multi-coated on all air-to-glass surfaces for optimal brightness at any time of day. The Dead-Hold BDC reticle is on the second focal plane and features customizable crosshairs to eliminate guesswork on holdover and wind drift corrections. This is very resourceful when hunting/shooting at varying distances.
Another hallmark that cements the Viper HS riflescope name among the best riflescopes for elk hunting is rugged construction. The 30mm tube is made of aircraft-grade aluminum making it light yet strong and tough.
The tube is purged with argon gas to prevent internal fogging and has its O-rings fully sealed to lock out debris to ensure reliable performance. Bringing an elk down requires heavy ammo that produces recoil. You don’t have to worry about rifle recoil damaging your scope as it is shockproof.
Adjustments are inevitable when hunting in the mountains where Elk are found. Vortex understood the assignment and made the scope with easy-to-use adjustment knobs.
On the left side of the tube is a side focus that removes parallax for optimal image focus. After sighting in the riflescope, the capped reset turrets help you to zero in and the caps prevent accidental dials that may throw you off.
Features
- Fully multi-coated lenses to allow maximum transmission of light.
- The scratch-resistant coating keeps the lenses clear for the life
- Waterproof, shockproof and fog-proof for reliable performance
- The precision-glide erector system allows flawless magnification changes
- A side focus to eliminate parallax
- Fast focus eyepiece allows effortless focusing of the reticle
- Exposed capped turrets make accurate finger audible clicks for smooth tracking
- 30mm tube provides ample space for internal adjustments
3) Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle
The Simmons 8-Point 3-9x50mm Rifle Scope with Truplex Reticle is a high-quality riflescope available very affordable price. The low-price tag may suggest the optic is flimsy but it hosts an array of features that deliver outstanding performance.
The riflescope has fully multicoated optics for enhanced light transmission resulting in pristine images. No matter the lighting conditions, the view will be clear as day. The glass quality rivals other scopes for elk hunting with a higher price tag.
Simmons 8-Point riflescope uses a truplex reticle a favorite among deer and elk hunters. The reticle is excellent for low light and uses crosshairs that are easy to aim with.
Another positive attribute of this Simmons riflescope is its durable construction. Not only is the scope weatherproof but it’s shockproof to withstand shock and vibrations when mounted on a recoiling rifle.
Proper adjustments are important when using a riflescope. The scope is fitted with elevation and windage adjustment knobs to make accurate windage and elevation corrections. The adjustment knobs are easy to use and will help you track and target the prey flawlessly.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics for pristine images
- A matte black finish.
- Its truezero windage and elevation adjustment stay locked to zero despite the conditions.
- Sure-Grip windage and elevation adjustment knobs
- Audible click for seamless tracking
- The Quick Target Acquisition (QTA) allows for fast and quick target acquisition.
- Waterproof, fog proof and recoil proof.
- 75 inches of eye relief for safety and comfort during use.
- 50mm objective lens diameter allow optimal light penetration
- Lightweight construction
4) Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12x40mm Rifle Scope
The Diamondback Tactical 4-12×40 is a perfect scope for elk hunting. The riflescope excels in midrange shooting distance but in the right hands, it can help a shooter conquer long-range shots boldly.
The scope is ruggedly designed to deliver reliable performance in any weather. Durability and performance are the cornerstones of the scope. The riflescope is second to none when it comes to quality and long-term use.
One of the pillars that makes this riflescope one of the best rifle scopes for elk hunting is a superior optical system. The lenses are made of high-quality glass and coated with anti-reflective coatings to optimize light transmission resulting in bright and sharp images. The VMR-1 reticle is specially designed to stretch the limits of your rifle as it gives accurate estimates of range, holdovers and windage corrections.
The scope is built with components that make sighting a breeze. The exposed tactical turrets help deliver the precision needed to give you an unfair advantage when at the range or hunting. The adjustments make audible clicks and return to zero effortless.
The fast-focus eyepiece is very resourceful when sighting targets as it allows for easy and swift focusing of the reticle. Another key addition to the riflescope is a magnification ring that permits seamless power switches in the heat of action.
When it comes to construction, you can’t beat the quality of this scope. The tube is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum bestowing rigidity for reliable performance.
The rugged design is backed by a nitrogen gas purging and tube sealing mechanism that locks out moisture and other debris for dependable performance in all environments. The tube is shockproof to shake off shocks and vibrations that may destabilize the internal components of the scope.
Features
- Fully multi-coated optics to increase light transmission for pristine images
- The tough and durable construction of aluminum-grade aluminum
- Fully waterproof and fogproof for reliable performance in any weather
- Rugged design to withstand shock and vibrations.
- Exposed turrets offer flawless and speedy windage and elevation changes.
- Integrates a precision-glide erector system for smooth magnification changes
- A fast-focus eyepiece swift and effortless reticle focusing
- The raised magnification rib facilitates speedy magnification switches
5) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x50mm Rifle Scope
Looking for an elk hunting scope to take you farther? Let Leupold VX-6HD 3-18×50 take you where other riflescopes can’t take you. This Leupold scope is one of the best rifle scopes for elk hunting in low-light conditions as it comes with an illuminated reticle.
The wide magnification range gives you the flexibility to deal with different situations confidently. With the lower power, you excel in timber situations and the higher powers help you dominate in any backcountry landscape.
The riflescope offers a unique combination of features and performance giving you an upper hand in any challenge. The professional optical system delivers unmatched light transmission for bright and sharp images regardless of the prevailing lighting conditions. Any elk hunter will love the image resolution and clarity offered by this riflescope.
Adjustments are inevitable when shooting/hunting at extended ranges for exact precision. This scope features a side focus knob for parallax removal making the reticle clearer.
Besides, the scope is fitted with windage and elevation adjustments that feature a zero-lock button to prevent accidental dials. These adjustments make your aim as meticulous as possible.
The tube housing the optics is made of aircraft-grade aluminum for strength and rigidity. To deliver reliable performance in various weather conditions, the tube is purged with internal gases and completely sealed to prevent internal fogging. The scope is also shock-resistant and so your recoiling rifle will not interfere with its performance.
Features
- A reversible throw lever allows quick magnification changes
- MST deactivates reticle when not in use to extend battery life
- An illuminated reticle for faster targeting in low-light conditions
- Electronic reticle level to enhance accuracy when taking long-range shots
- The hydrophobic lens coating shed off dirt and water to stay clear
- Zero-lock windage and elevation dials for precise adjustments
- Parallax removal through a side focus knob
- The top-notch optical system to allow optimal light transmission
- Versatile magnification for handling different shooting scenarios
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
Choosing the Best Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting
Know your Prey
When choosing a rifle scope, always have in mind what your most preferred prey and in what environment you will be doing your hunting activities. Combining these two factors will allow you to get the riflescope that fits you best.
Much as Elk hunting is similar to deer hunting, Elks are more likely to attack and charge therefore have a riflescope that will allow you to keep a safe distance between you and your target. If the environment is foggy, look for a fog-proof rifle scope that can also perform in low-light conditions.
Magnification Range
Lower magnification of about 2X – 7X would work okay for Elk hunters mainly because parallax in this magnification range would not be a big issue and the field of view is wider thus making target acquisition easier.
However, the most preferred magnification would be 7X – 9X because it gives a field of view that is good enough for scouting yet the parallax is manageable.
A magnification of 9X-12X would alleviate parallax and would only be suitable when you are shooting 350 yards and above. It would also only be suitable for outside scouting but not targeting the Elk.
Adequate Eye Relief
During recoil, the hunter might get hit on the eyebrow if the eye relief is not adequate. This is mainly a problem when using high-caliber guns as the recoil is harder. Ensure to get a rifle scope with adequate eye relief to avoid such accidents, especially when using a high-caliber gun.
Parallax
Parallax reduces accuracy when hunting. When using a lower magnification scope, the factory parallax is adequate. However, riflescopes with higher magnification, you require to adjust parallax more so if your range of shooting is above 350 yards.
Lenses
The lens quality affects clarity when hunting. A larger objective lens will allow more light in especially if you are hunting in low light conditions. The more light is let in, the brighter and clearer your image gets.
Lens coatings also enhance the brightness and clarity of the image they prevent flare and aid in light transmission. Moreover, lens coatings that have anti-scratch protection keep dirt and debris from the scope contributing to clearer images. Aim at getting a scope with fully multi-coated lenses.
Durability
Many times, Elk hunting is associated with wet weather. Ensure to get a waterproof rifle scope. It should also be fog-proof due to the cold temperatures. Aim at getting a riflescope that is shockproof due to the rough terrain in areas where Elks would be found.
A shockproof rifle would be still in good condition even if it fell in these bumpy areas. Your rifle should also be able to handle recoil despite the caliber of the gun you are using.
See Also
Advantages of Best Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting
Compatibility-It turns out that most Elk hunting riflescopes are compatible with a wide range of rifles thus getting the best rifle scope for Elk hunting takes away the worry of which rifle to use.
Can withstand adverse weather conditions-For optimality and satisfaction of the hunter, Elk riflescopes are designed to remain usable despite the weather conditions. They are fog proof and waterproof making them usable even in wet seasons.
Ease in usage-Elk hunting riflescopes is easy to set and adjust thus making it easier for the hunter to mount and set the scope. This saves time and makes it easier and faster to hit the target.
Proper Shot Placement-As much as Elk hunters want to take down the target, most of them do not want to cause their target unnecessary pain and suffering. They want to make a humane kill and the proper shot placement feature of Elk scopes makes this possible as most of the time the right shot will take down the Elk almost immediately.
Safety- About proper shot placement, the elk hunting scopes will minimize the risk of hurting an animal. Hurt animals are wild and dangerous posing some risk to the hunter as they might decide to attack.
Benefits of Investing in a Good Riflescope for Elk hunting
Better Hunt-If you get a good riflescope for hunting, chances are you will mostly have successful shots due to the increased accuracy and precision. Unlike using the naked eye, there are better chances of seeing the animals even when they are hiding.
Cover ranges-When hunting for Elks, it is wise to keep some distance between them because unlike deer, Elks can be dangerous by fighting back. However, to make a successful shot at a distance you will need to invest in a good scope. Best Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting are well suited for this.
Upgrade-Getting the Best Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting will upgrade your firearm. They are considered to be essential for one to be acknowledged as a professional hunter. They are also must-haves for quality hunting.
FAQs about Best Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting
Q: What are the Most Desired Reticle Basics for Elk Hunting?
Aim to get a reticle that is made with the duplex reticle or any of its close cousins. If possible, get one with an illuminated center dot and also one that is clear at all magnification levels including low magnification.
Additionally, a quick reference ranging feature would be admirable in a riflescope. A BDC reticle would not be as useful for Elk hunting as Elks mostly live in mountains while a BDC reticle is mainly designed for a target gun because it does not include up and down angles.
Q: What Magnification Do I Need for Elk Hunting?
The required magnification is mainly determined by the distance between you and your target. Ensure that the magnification chosen is suitable for the distance between you and the Elk. Usually, the rule is 1X for every 100 yards and the best magnification is the lowest one that yields a clear and sharp image of your target.
Q: What is Parallax in Elk Hunting?
Parallax is generally when the reticle appears to move slightly when looking through your scope more so during long-range shooting mostly above 100 yards. It occurs if the eye you are using to look through the scope is not perfectly aligned with the reticle.
Q: What is the Right Size of the Objective Lens that I Should Use in My Scope?
The bigger the objective lens, the more light the scope lets in thus yielding bright and clear images. On the other hand, the bigger the objective lens, the heavier the lens making it cumbersome to carry the scope around.
There is always a trade-off between light transmission and weight. The objective lens determines the width of the field of view and for Elk hunting, you do not need a scope with a big objective lens.
Conclusion
A firearm is incomplete without a good rifle scope when it comes to Elk hunting. From the above, we have seen that there are various factors that you will put into consideration while choosing the best rifle scope for elk hunting.
The choice of scope will vary from one person to another and it will be affected by various factors such as the environment and preference. Get the rifle scope that suits you best and go enjoy your hunting experience.