Increase the odds of hitting targets with your deer hunting rifle by mounting a high-quality scope. The best scopes for long-range deer hunting provide the needed optical power to cover the distance confidently.
Deer hunting is an activity enjoyed by many. It is thrilling but challenging especially when you are hunting in adverse environments. If you hunt deer recreationally or as a professional hunter, you know that it is not for the faint-hearted. It is an age-long activity that is very taxing.
To make your deer hunting trips less challenging, you need to get a scope. A hunting scope will change the way you hunt by making your trips more competitive.
Besides, it will broaden your vision in the field and make target finding easy, even at long ranges or in harsh and unforgiving terrains.
What Makes the Best Scope for Deer Hunting?
Every deer hunt is peculiar and no single rifle scope can be termed as the best deer hunting scope. With divergent deer hunters’ needs, different manufacturers design rifle scopes with unique attributes to meet the requirements and hunting styles of the hunters.
Regardless of where you hunt, we can all agree that the best scope for deer hunting should increase your success during the deer season. On that note, there are several key features a deer hunting scope should have to provide you with a unique advantage while hunting.
Firstly, the scope should be fitted with quality glass. When taking long-range shots, you need to see the targets. Premium glass delivers sharp contrast and resolution to allow the execution of accurate shots.
A combination of optical prowess and fast aiming is the other attribute a deer hunter needs in a rifle scope. A large objective bell of 40-50mm is adequate in transmitting ample light for bright images. Fast shooting is achieved through simplistic reticles. No need for complicated reticles on a deer hunting scope.
The other important attribute of a deer hunting scope is its lightweight construction. Open-country deer hunters trek for miles and carry gear with them.
Adding any extra weight to the arsenal is the last thing they want to do. Riflescopes made of aircraft-grade aluminum are not only light but tough making them the ideal choice for hunters.
8 Best Scopes for Long-Range Deer Hunting
In a market offering a multitude of rifle scopes, choosing the best hunting scope isn’t an easy task. In this post, we have narrowed the search to a top selection of quality, high-performance and effective rifle scopes to help you find the right optic to customize your hunting rifle.
The best scopes for long-range deer hunting should be tough, hard-wearing and consistent. Here is a detailed review of the top-performing long-range scopes for deer hunting that make a valuable asset to every hunter out there.
Let’s take a look.
1) Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12x56mm Rifle Scope
When it comes to long-range deer hunting scopes, you can’t go wrong with the Zeiss Conquest V4 3-12x56mm Rifle Scope. Hosting top-notch features, Conquest V4 3-12x 56 riflescope is arguably one of the best scopes for long-range deer hunting.
It is engineered for long-range shooting and hunting where it yields great accuracy and reliable optical performance even in low-light conditions. Equip your deer hunting rifle with this scope and see the difference quality glass makes.
The variable and versatile 3-12x zoom power is complemented by an extra-wide 56mm objective lens that scoops more light to deliver bright and clear image views even at the highest magnification. It also features a Z-Plex Reticle 20 that maximizes accuracy at long distances.
Another highlight of the scope is its optical system. It is outfitted with precision elements, crafted from high-definition optical glass to deliver superb resolution. The lens is also treated with T multi-coating to ensure that more light gets transmitted into the optics.
To minimize the amount of maintenance needed in the field, the exterior lenses have a LotoTec coating that is hydrophobic and scratch resistant. The scope also has a durable and lightweight aluminum housing that is fully waterproof, fog proof and submersible in water.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Anodized aluminum housing
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Capped hunting-style turrets
- 30mm diameter main tube
- Multi-coated optics
- Large elevation and windage adjustment range
Pros
- High-performance optical glass
- Illuminated reticle
- Lightweight and durable
Cons
- Fixed parallax
2) Crimson Trace Hardline Pro 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope
The Crimson Trace Hardline Pro 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope is built for the hunt. It harbors a broad 4-16x zoom power and a multitude of other features that make it one of the best scopes for long-range hunting.
With this rifle scope, you get parallax-free views from 50 yards to infinity. The lenses are fully multi-coated to increase light transmission by 90% and ensure that the sight pictures generated are of maximum clarity and brightness.
The rifle scope also boasts a long eye relief of 4” so you will have a comfortable time using it with or without eyeglasses. Combining high-quality optics and solid construction, this scope provides deer hunters with a distinct advantage due to improved clarity and incredible low-light performance.
The scope is designed ready for hunting. It has a robust aircraft-quality aluminum housing that is shockproof to weather rough handling and stands up to high recoil. It is also filled with nitrogen and waterproofed to be ready for whatever elements it encounters.
For extreme accuracy when it counts, choose the Crimson Trace Hardline Pro optics for your deer hunting rifle. Look no further for the best scopes for long-range deer hunting than the Crimson Trace hardline pro series.
Features
- Zero Stop with rev indicator
- Fully multi-coated lens
- Water, fog and shockproof
- Spring-loaded zero reset exposed turrets
- Adjustable parallax
- First focal plane reticle
Pros
- High glass quality
- Long eye relief
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Slightly heavy
3) Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm FFP Rifle Scope
If you are looking for a low-light hunting scope, look no further than the Burris Veracity 3-15x50mm. It has a large 50mm objective that allows for maximum light collection and Hi-Lume multi-coated optics that maximize light transmission.
The versatile 5x zoom system provides a wide field of view at close quarters and better target acquisition for targets at longer ranges. The reticle is put on the first focal plane so the measurements remain correct and proportional to the target at every zoom setting.
Furthermore, the scope employs high-grade optical glass which provides excellent resolution and color contrast with lasting durability. It also features an ergonomic side focus that allows for simple adjustment.
Construction-wise, the sighting tool has a robust and durable 1-piece outer tube that withstands shock and vibrations. The double internal spring-tension system lets the scope hold zero through fierce recoil, while the nitrogen-filled tube prevents internal fog build-up in the cold and rain.
This high-quality, top performing and functional optic will not leave you disappointed. With powerful ranging and a wide field of view, Veracity Rifle Scopes are top contenders as the best scopes for long-range deer hunting.
Features
- Advanced windage and elevation adjustments
- First focal plane reticle
- High-grade optical glass
- Double internal spring-tension system
- Versatile 5x zoom
- 30mm main tube
- Adjustable parallax
Pros
- Good eye relief
- Crisp clear optics
- Quality fit and finish
- Durable construction
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
4) SIG SAUER Whiskey 6 3-18x44mm SFP Tube Rifle Scope
The SIG SAUER Whiskey 6 is a second focal plane rifle scope ideal for long-range hunting and shooting. It has a versatile 3-18x zoom power and a large 44mm objective that offers a wide field of view and clear image views even at the highest magnification power.
Superior optical clarity makes this rifle scope a perfect choice for deer hunting across vast ranges and environments. It has extra-low dispersion glass which provides high resolution and color richness, and solid lens coatings that enhance light transmittance from dawn to dusk.
Moreover, the scope has a dependable IPX-7 waterproof rating for use in any environment. For added convenience, it has a removable throw lever which makes it easy to you to make magnification changes.
It also has a side focus for parallax adjustment and long eye relief to make glassing comfortable from any shooting position. Shred distant targets with utmost precision by mounting this scope on your deer hunting rifle.
Features
- 30mm body tube
- 3-18x magnification power
- IPX-7 waterproof and fogproof
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- Removable throw lever
- Side focus parallax adjustment
- Second focal plane reticle
Pros
- Lightweight and solid construction
- Long eye relief
- Stunning optical clarity
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
5) Vortex Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm SFP Rifle Scope
The Crossfire II AO 4-12x50mm SFP Rifle Scope is one of the best scopes for long-range deer hunting for those on a budget. It employs incredibly clear optics that yield quality target pictures from dawn to dusk.
With the versatile 4-12x magnification power, the scope is great for all deer pursuits. It yields a wide field of view and superb low-light resolution thanks to the large 50mm objective lens.
Better yet, the fully multi-coated optics offer excellent light transmission and minimize glare when you are hunting in daylight conditions.
Vortex designed the scope to be nearly indestructible. It has a waterproof and shockproof aluminum body and is fogproof to be usable in all weather conditions. The turrets are capped to be less vulnerable to damage and prevent accidental adjustments.
The scope has an objective that is adjustable to eliminate parallax and bring the targets into focus. It also has a fast-focus eyepiece that makes reticle focusing a speedy and easy process.
Features
- Dead-Hold BDC SFP reticle
- Aircraft-grade aluminum body
- Waterproof and fogproof
- Hard anodized finish
- Fast focus eyepiece
- Fully multi-coated optics
Pros
- Cheap
- Quality construction
- Accommodating eye relief
- Lightweight
Cons
- Non-illuminated reticle
6) Burris Droptine 4.5-14x42mm SFP Rifle Scope
The Burris Droptine 4.5-14x42mm rifle scope is made with virtually every feature that you need to change the way you hunt for the better. It is simple to use and an excellent choice for all hunters, even beginners.
The scope has high-grade optical glass that yields excellent brightness and clarity. The parallax adjustment offers improved accuracy at long distances and the precision-ground lenses are large to offer better light collection.
With a weight of 18oz only, the scope is light enough to disperse heavy recoil effectively and not affect the balance of your hunting rifle. It is crafted from aircraft-quality aluminum to maximize durability and guarantee once-in-a-lifetime memories time and again.
Furthermore, the tubes in this rifle scope are nitrogen filled to prevent internal fog build-up in cold and rain. It also features a durable, integrated eyepiece with a non-slip grip to ensure easy adjustment in the field.
Features
- Adjustable parallax
- Aircraft-quality aluminum housing
- High-grade optical glass
- Integrated eyepiece
- Waterproof and nitrogen filled
- Hi-Lume multicoating
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good price
- Optics clarity
Cons
- Some quality issues
7) Trijicon AccuPoint TR-20 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope
Trijicon is a renowned optics brand. It makes an array of quality optics and the Trijicon AccuPoint TR-20 3-9x40mm Rifle Scope is proof of that. Having this sighting tool for your deer hunting trips will guarantee success, even in the most unforgiving terrains.
The scope is designed to increase your odds of landing your shot accurately in any lighting condition. The self-luminous system will boost your shooting confidence and empower you to execute any shot even in critically low light settings.
Furthermore, the variable 3-9x zoom power gives you the flexibility to take shots in dense brush or across open fields effortlessly. Sighting in poor lighting conditions is also enhanced significantly by the 40mm objective and the multi-layer coated lenses.
The scope also features a robust aluminum main tube that is waterproof to 10’ and coated with a scratch-resistant Type III hard anodized finish. Surely this excellent scope is one of the best scopes for long-range deer hunting.
With swift precision-aiming and sharp focus for maximum shooting success, Trijicon AccuPoint 3-9×40 Rifle Scope will be a dependable shooting companion for your deer hunting rifle. Equip your hunting rifle with this high-quality scope and take your hunting to greater heights.
Features
- Waterproof and fogproof
- 1-inch main tube
- Dual illuminated mil-dot reticle
- Type III hard anodized finish
- Multi-layer coated lenses
Pros
- Battery-free reticle illumination
- Lightweight
- Clear and bright optics
- Easy to use
Cons
- Short eye relief at maximum power
8) Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope
We saved the best for last. Leupold VX-6HD 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope is loaded with essential features to transform your hunting game for the better. This lightweight sighting tool is built for hunting games across vast ranges and delivers stunning precision.
The scope is well-crafted to endure harsh elements and the recoil-heavy caliber weapons generate. It is argon purged to keep the lenses fog-free and waterproofed to deliver a lifetime of reliable use under any weather.
To fight off glare and maximize the amount of light transmitted, the scope has a Twilight Max Light Management system. This system yields admirably bright and clear images, even in twilight conditions.
Moreover, an ambidextrous throw lever is included to help you change magnification power swiftly without losing sight of the target. This premium hunting scope also features a Zero Lock windage adjustment that delivers a precise return to zero each time while preventing accidental adjustments.
The VX-6HD 3-18×44 scope stands out as one of the best scopes for long-range deer hunting because of its outstanding low-light performance. For dawn and dusk hunting, this riflescope gives you an upper hand and when going further, the sharpened clarity and color purity ensures you stay on focus.
Features
- Second focal plane reticle
- Fiber optics illumination
- Guard-ion rain-shedding coating
- Water, fog and shockproof
- Powerful 6:1 zoom
- The twin bias spring erector system
- Reversible throw lever
Pros
- Stunning low-light performance
- Illuminated reticle
- Great zero stop
- Good eye relief
Cons
- Big budget
Further Reading
- Best Scopes for Winchester XPR
- Rifle Scopes for Elk Hunting
- Best Vortex Scope for 300 Win Mag
- Vortex Scopes for 30-06 Rifles
- Best Scopes for 400 Yards
How to Choose the Best Scopes for Long-Range Deer Hunting
Highlighted below are the key factors you need to consider when shopping for the best scopes for long-range deer hunting.
Magnification
For long-range deer hunting, you will need a scope that has a high magnification power. Such a scope will let you cover distant ranges with ease and find your targets without breaking a sweat.
It is also important to get a scope that has a vast magnification range so you get a great deal of adaptability from it.
Optical Quality
When hunting at long ranges, you will need to have a clear sight picture of the target to place the shot accurately.
This can only be achieved with a quality hunting scope that employs high-quality glass and good lens coatings. The coatings a scope utilizes also go a long way to provide an extra shield from scratches and dirt.
Read: Best Vortex Scopes for Deer Hunting
Objective Lens
You will need a hunting scope that features a large objective lens. The larger the objective is, the more light the scope scoops and the wider field of view it provides. The result is extra image brightness and clarity even in low light settings of dawn and dusk.
Eye Relief
The other important thing to consider is eye relief. This is the maximum distance the scope has to be from your eye when you are using it.
A scope with a long eye relief will make glassing much more comfortable even when you are wearing your eyeglasses. It will also shield your eye from injuries when you are shooting high calibers that generate fierce recoil.
Read: Best Scout Scopes for M1A
Durability
Get a scope that will offer reliable performance in the hunting field no matter the conditions you subject it to.
The best scope for long-range deer hunting should have a rugged and shockproof construction to weather recoil, harsh impact and whatever punishments you subject it to.
Furthermore, the scope should be built to be usable in all weather conditions. This way, hunting will be considerably easy even in adverse conditions.
Weight
To have a rewarding and enjoyable hunt you need a light scope. With a light scope, you will be able to carry it together with the hunting weapon with ease from one point to the other.
Another benefit of light scopes is that they are easy to use and accurate as they don’t bright any extra weight that might affect the balance of the rifle.
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FAQs
Q: What is the Best Scope for Hunting Deer?
The best scope for hunting deer is one that meets your needs. It is therefore important to check the features the scope has, the quality of construction and ease of use, then decide appropriately.
Q: Is a 3-9X Scope Good for Hunting?
Yes. A 3-9x scope is best for hunting games at distances where you don’t need a ton of magnification power. It offers the perfect balance of powerful magnification and a wide field of view for greater versatility.
Conclusion
We hope that this post on the best scopes for long-range deer hunting has been insightful and helpful. All the rifle scopes we have listed above are made with hunters in mind.
They have all the features you will need to make the most out of your hunt once you set foot in the field. Factor in your hunting needs and habits and choose the scope that works for you.