Best Long Range Hunting Scope: Top Picks in 2025

In the world of long-range hunting, the scope is your “secret weapon.” Imagine being out on the vast plains, with a target hundreds of meters away. In the midst of rustling winds and shifting grass, can you accurately aim and make a precise shot? It all depends on whether your scope is up to the task.

Next, we’ll guide you on how to choose the right long range hunting scope and recommend the best long range hunting scope to help you make an informed decision. Ready to get close to your target? Let’s go!

Part 1. What is Long Range Hunting Scope?

First, what is long range hunting? Long range hunting refers to shooting at a target from a great distance, typically over 100 yards and sometimes several hundred yards away. This type of shooting requires the shooter to have not only precise skills but also the ability to adapt to various environmental factors such as wind speed, terrain changes, and more. To successfully make a long-range shot, choosing the right scope is essential.

A long range hunting scope is specifically designed to meet these needs. Unlike regular hunting scopes, they offer higher magnification, superior optical performance, and a more durable construction, making them capable of handling complex outdoor conditions and extended use.

In long-range hunting, precision is important, but maintaining a clear view and steady aim in an ever-changing natural environment is just as crucial. Long range hunting scopes are designed for this purpose, helping you lock onto distant targets and shoot with accuracy.

Part 2. How to Choose the Best Long Range Hunting Scope?

When selecting the right long range hunting scope, there are several key factors to consider:

1. Magnification

Long range shooting typically requires higher magnification to clearly see distant targets. Most long range hunting scopes offer magnification between 3x and 15x. Depending on your shooting distance, if you are shooting at longer ranges, it is recommended to choose a scope with 10x magnification or higher.

2. Optical Performance

Optical performance is crucial in determining the quality of a hunting scope. A high-quality scope should provide clear vision in low-light conditions and deliver accurate color reproduction, avoiding color distortion and blurring. Choosing a scope with multi-coated optical elements can significantly improve light transmission, ensuring brighter and clearer images.

3. Adjustment System

Long range shooting requires precise windage and elevation adjustments. A good long range scope should have easy-to-use adjustment knobs, allowing users to make flexible changes based on real-world conditions. Some high-end scopes also feature fine-tuning capabilities, helping hunters maintain precision even in extreme weather.

4. Durability and Protective Features

Long-term use and challenging outdoor environments demand that long range hunting scopes have high durability. Choosing scopes that are waterproof, fog-resistant, and shockproof will ensure excellent performance in various conditions. The robustness of the scope body is especially important for hunting in extreme climates.

5. Field of View

Long range hunting not only requires high magnification but also a wide field of view. A larger field of view makes it easier to spot your target and make precise shots. Opt for a scope with a wider field of view, especially if you need to make quick reactions during hunting.

Part 3. Best Scope for Long Range Hunting

We’re now approaching the most anticipated part of the discussion—the best long range hunting scope. In this section, we’ll tackle your questions and provide you with expert insights on what is the best scope for long range hunting, helping you make an informed decision that perfectly suits your needs.

1. Shotelex Falcon 5-25X56 Long Range Hunting Scope

Shotelex Falcon 5-25X56 Long Range Hunting Scope is a premium choice for professional shooters and serious hunters. It is specifically designed to meet the demands of long-range shooting, featuring the advanced Shotelex S6 optical system that delivers exceptional optical performance.

This ensures precise target acquisition with clarity and accuracy, even at extended distances. Its one-piece 34mm tube design enhances stability and durability, making it the perfect scope for those seeking consistent and reliable performance during long-distance shots.

Pros:

Exceptional Optical Clarity: Thanks to the Shotelex S6 optical technology, it provides outstanding clarity and color fidelity, ensuring you can spot even the smallest details in varying lighting conditions.
Superior Stability: The one-piece 34mm tube enhances structural stability, reducing vibrations and improving accuracy for long-distance shots.
Durability: Built with high-quality materials, this scope undergoes rigorous testing, ensuring long-term durability and reliability even under extreme conditions.
Precision Engineering: The mechanical components are precisely engineered, ensuring consistent performance and high accuracy with every shot.
User-Friendly: Designed with an intuitive control interface, allowing users to quickly familiarize themselves and master the scope’s functions, making it ideal for professional competitions, outdoor hunting, and tactical training.

Cons:

Weight: Due to its durable construction and large 56mm objective lens, it may be heavier than other scopes, which could be a consideration for hunters looking for lighter options.

2. Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm

Vortex Viper PST Gen II series scope is renowned for its superior optical quality and precise adjustment system. With a magnification range of 5-25x, it is perfectly suited for long-range shooting. This scope also features a waterproof and fog-resistant design, ensuring stable performance even in harsh environments. Whether you’re hunting or shooting at extended distances, the Viper PST Gen II offers exceptional clarity and accuracy, making it a top choice for professionals.

Pros:

Outstanding Optical Quality: Offers crystal-clear images at all magnifications, allowing for precise target acquisition.
Wide Magnification Range: The 5-25x magnification is ideal for a variety of shooting distances, offering versatility.
Durability: Waterproof and fog-resistant, this scope can handle challenging outdoor conditions.
Precise Adjustment System: The turrets offer quick and reliable adjustments for windage and elevation, ideal for long-distance accuracy.
Enhanced Low Light Performance: The lens coatings and light transmission offer superior performance in low light conditions.

Cons:

Weight: Slightly heavier than some other scopes, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing lightweight gear.

Price: Being a high-end scope, the price of $1499.99 may be out of budget for some hunters.

3. Leupold VX-3i 4.5-14x40mm

Leupold VX-3i is a lightweight and efficient long-range scope, perfect for various hunting scenarios. With a magnification range of 4.5-14x, it is ideal for medium to long-range shots.

The VX-3i boasts excellent optical performance, providing clear and sharp images. Its rugged construction ensures durability, and it’s designed to perform reliably in tough conditions. It’s a popular choice among hunters who need a reliable scope for a variety of shooting distances.

Pros:

Lightweight and Compact: The scope is easy to carry and handle, making it great for hunting over long distances.
Clear Optics: Delivers bright, clear images with excellent light transmission, ensuring visibility in various lighting conditions.
Rugged and Durable: Built with Leupold’s renowned durability, the VX-3i is tough enough to withstand rough environments.
Versatile Magnification Range: The 4.5-14x magnification range is well-suited for medium to long-range hunting.
Twilight Max Light Management System: Enhances low-light performance for hunting at dawn or dusk.

Cons:

Limited Magnification Range: The 4.5-14x may not be ideal for extreme long-range shooting compared to higher-magnification scopes.
No Side Parallax Adjustment: Some users may prefer a side parallax adjustment for easier focus at longer distances.

Part 4. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Long Range Hunting Scope

Excessive Magnification

Many hunters tend to opt for higher magnification when selecting a scope, but in practice, too much magnification can result in image instability, especially in dynamic hunting scenarios. It’s more important to choose a magnification range that suits your specific needs and shooting conditions.

Neglecting Durability

Outdoor environments are unpredictable, so it’s essential to select a scope that is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant to ensure reliable performance over the long term, even in harsh conditions.

Overlooking Eye Comfort

Prolonged use of a scope can put strain on your eyes. Choosing a scope that aligns with your eye habits and offers comfort can effectively reduce eye fatigue and ensure a more enjoyable and efficient shooting experience.

In Summary

Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a beginner in long-range hunting, choosing the right long range hunting scope is crucial. Focus on key factors such as magnification, optical performance, adjustment system, durability, and field of view, and make a wise choice based on your specific needs.

If you are looking for affordable and reliable long range hunting scopes, Shotelex long range hunting supplier, can be your strong support for your hunting experience.