12 Best Scout Scopes Actually Worth the Money (2024)
Forward mounted scopes are great because they make target acquisition quicker (peripheral vision) and enable faster follow up shots at close-medium ranges. The best scout scope comes with long eye relief and gets out of the way of the bolt handle and ejection/loading port (mostly older guns).
Top options
Best scout scope
Burris Scout
2-7x32mm
Best for the money
Leupold VC-Freedom
1.5-4x28mm
Best budget option
Leapers Scout
2-7x44mm
Best scout scope
1. Burris 200261 2-7x32mm Riflescope w/ Ballistic Plex Reticle
The Burris 200261 riflescope is the best scout rifle scope with a variable magnification of 2x to 7x and equipped with a 32mm objective lens. It means you can conveniently focus on objects that are near or far away.
The Burris scout scope is equipped with a Ballistic Plex and has a tube diameter of one inch. The scope is not much heavy and you can conveniently use it on your scouting rifle. The Burris 2-7 scout scope comes equipped with a special Posi-Lock system with coil-spring assistance with its retractable post that keeps the scope securely in place. So, if you are on the move while hunting, it will prove to be a good option for you.
Burris has purged this scout scope with nitrogen to make it fog and water-resistant. The company has also tested the quality and performance of several recoils. It can handle the pulse accelerations pretty well during the recoils.
These scout riflescopes feature a larger objective lens that can gather a good amount of light even in the dark and with the variable magnification, you get to focus on your closer target as well.
What we liked
- Bigger lens diameter
- Features larger objective
- Variable magnification
- Fully nitrogen purged for fog and water resistance
- Boasts a ballistic reticle for better-aiming assistance
- Equipped with a second focal plane for better long-range shooting
- Wider exit pupil for better performance in the dark
What we didn’t like
- Precision within 500 yards only
- Doesn’t come with a wider FoV
- Cannot attach an anti-reflective lens device directly to it
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 7 feet to 21 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 9.2-inch to 12-inch
Reticle: Ballistic Plex
Length: 9.7-inch
Weight: 13 oz
Features: Shockproof, fog proof, waterproof, Hi-Lime multi-coated, Posi-Lock
2. Leupold VX-Freedom Scout 1.5-4×28 Riflescope
This Leupold variable scout scope comes with a 28mm objective lens and its magnification ranges from 1.5x to 4x. It features a duplex reticle and has a tube diameter of 1-inch to ensure maximum light transmission. These Leupold scout scopes come with a second focal plane to make sure you get a better aim at longer ranges.
The tactical scout scope features a maximum exit pupil of 13.8mm at full zoom and provides you with a wide FoV of up to 41.7 feet at 10 yards for better situational awareness. If you wear spectacles, this copy is an ideal choice for you because it comes with an eye relief of almost 7 inches.
Leupold has used high-quality Aluminum 6061-T6 and is built to take on the outdoors and harsh weather. The only thing this 4x scout scope lacks is an illuminated reticle that could have made aiming a lot easier in low lights. But it’s designed for the professionals and if you have enough experience under your belt, you won’t encounter any trouble in handling this Leupold scout rifle scope.
What we liked
- The scope comes with the twilight management system
- Fully water, shock, and fog proof construction
- Variable magnification ensures quality close focus
- Its power selector is very easy to grip
- The lenses that this scope has, are resistant to scratches
- Features an extended eye relief
- The main tube is 1-inch wide for better light transmission
What we didn’t like
- Not an ideal option for beginners
- MOA is not enough to compensate for Gamo’s high point of impact
- Doesn’t come with an illuminated reticle
Magnification: 1.5x to 4x
Lens diameter: 28mm
Field of view: 17.4 feet to 41.7 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 6-inch to 6.9-inch
Reticle: Duplex
Length: 11.2-inch
Weight: 9.3 oz
Features: Twilight LMS, Aluminum T6-6061, Shock, fog, and waterproof
3. Burris Scout 2.75x20mm Heavy Plex Reticle Riflescope
The Burris Heavy Plex Scout comes with quality scout rifle optics, including a Plex reticle, and weighs only around 7 ounces. The close-range rifle scope works with a range of different rifles and features some brilliant optics.
It has a rugged construction that makes it ideally suited for top-notch on-field performance and it works as a good scout scope on AR 15 gun.
Burris only uses high-end optics and costings to ensure the brightness and clarity of the images. The scope comes with a 2nd focal plane technology that enhances your overall long-distance shooting range.
The long range scout scope also features a longer exit pupil with a more relaxed eye relief to ensure your ease when viewing through your Burris scope. The AR 15 scout scope’s FoV is not wide but has a lightweight construction.
What we liked
- Fully waterproof and fog-resistant
- Lightweight
- Long eye relief
- Wider exit pupil for better light transmission
- Features thick plex reticle
- 2nd focal plane ensures better long-range shooting
- Suitable for all-weather conditions
What we didn’t like
- Not suitable to use with 165gr ammo and above
- No illuminated reticle
Magnification: 2.75x
Lens diameter: 20mm
Field of view: 15 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 14-inch
Reticle: Heavy plex
Length: 9.2-inch
Weight: 7 oz
Features: 2nd focal plane, heavy plex reticle, nitrogen purged
4. Sightmark ATC 3-12×32 Scout Riflescope
Sightmark is the best scout sight scope that’s equipped with a 32m objective lens with a magnification that ranges from 3x to 12x. The scope comes with illuminated reticles to make sure you acquire your target even in dim light or foggy conditions.
It is the best scope for scout rifle because it features quality optics with precise multi-coating lenses for clearer and brighter views. You will conveniently acquire your target in low and bright light. The forward mounted scope can easily handle fog and moist conditions and you also get to use the parallax adjustments for your long-range shots.
The intermediate eye relief scope is equipped with a 2nd focal plane to assist you in your long-range shots and has a wider exit pupil of 10.6mm for better performance in dim lights. It has an FoV of 9.1 feet at 100 yards and is made of high-quality Aluminum alloy 6061 T6. The optics here have a full multi-coated finish and come with an IP67 water resistivity rating.
What we liked
- Comes with 2nd focal plane for better long-range shooting
- Features a larger sized objective lens for better shaper images
- Comes with a maximum exit pupil
- Superior performance in foggy conditions
- Illuminated reticle for better low light aiming
- Fully multi-coated lenses featuring quality glass
- Aluminum alloy construction for durability
- Variable magnification of 3x to 12x
What we didn’t like
- It will add some weight to your rifle due to its metal construction
- The battery required frequent recharging
Magnification: 3x to 12x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 9.1 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 4.2inch
Reticle: Finely etched
Length: 11.6 inch
Weight: 20.8 oz
Features: IP67, fully multi-coated, Aluminum alloy 6061-T6
5. Leapers Long Eye Relief 2-7x44mm Scout Scope
The Leapers scout scope comes with a 44mm objective lens that allows you to see your target from a distance and hit the spot bang on target.
It is a good scout scope because it makes shooting so simple, as if you are taking a shot at a fish into a barrel. The diameter of the tube of this scope is 30mm and ensures you see clearly with maximum light transmission.
The body of this scope is impact resistant and keeps moisture and fog away. It comes with an EZ-TAP reticle illumination system that provides you the picture in 36 different colors. You can choose any of these colors based upon available light and viewing preferences.
The scope also comes equipped with memory to get straight to the illumination setting you used previously. So you don’t have to make any adjustments. Just get it on your refile and start aiming at your targets.
What we liked
- Bigger objective lens for better light transmission
- Performs well in low light conditions
- Wider field of view of 32 feet at 100 yards
- Very comfortable eye relief of up to 11 inches
- Fully shock, fog, and moisture-proof
- Features multiple color modes for viewing in different light conditions
- Comes with multiple accessories to use
What we didn’t like
- Slightly heavy overall
- The battery doesn’t last very long
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 44mm
Field of view: 10 feet to 32 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 9.5-inch to 11-inch
Reticle: Mil-dot
Length: 11.5-inch
Weight: 25.4 oz
Features: Shock, fog, and moisture-proof, Dual-Color mode
6. Vortex Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Riflescope
The Crossfire II Vortex boasts a 32mm objective lens and performs well in low light. It also features a variable magnification that ranges between 2x and 7x. The scope features a V-plex and comes with a hard-anodized finish for rugged performance.
These scout rifle sights come with a 2nd focal plane with a non-illuminated reticle. You can conveniently hunt down bucks even when the light conditions are less suitable. Illuminated reticles could have helped further in this scenario, but this 308 scout scope doesn’t feature such a thing.
These intermediate eye relief scout scopes also come with o-rings to prevent moisture debris and dust from entering the tube of the scope. So, the Vortex scout scope will remain reliable for you no matter what. It also provides you with a wider field of view for better situational awareness to aim your target. The Vortex 308 scope is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, so it is as robust as your rifle.
What we liked
- With 2nd focal plane, your long-range shooting gets better
- V-plex reticle allows cleaner hits even in murky conditions
- Exit pupil is as wide as 16mm at high zoom
- Best scope for Ruger scout 308
- Quick focus eyepiece that reduces your time to shoot
- Comfortable eye relief is 9.45 inches
- Aircraft-grade aluminum makes the scope lightweight and durable
- Fully multi-coated lenses for clearer, sharper images
What we didn’t like
- Not to be used with a semi-auto
- No reticle illumination available
- The lens cover doesn’t fit well
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 5.2 feet to 18.3 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 9.4-inch
Reticle: V-plex
Length: 10.5-inch
Weight: 12 oz
Features: Aircraft-grade aluminum, fully multi-coated lenses, hard anodized
7. Hi-Lux Optics Long Eye Relief 2-7x 32mm Riflescope
This scouting scope is equipped with an objective lens of 32mm and a variable magnification that ranges from 2x to 7x. The scope can make your shooting experience very comfortable while allowing you to maintain your accuracy. The optical lens of this scope comes with Diamond Tuff14 and fully multi-coating to ensure clarity.
One of the best features that makes it the best scope for Ruger scout rifle is its long eye relief that ranges from 8 inches to 14 inches. Hi-Lux has polished these lenses to provide you photographic quality and ensures an adequate amount of light transmission and clarity.
With the Duplex reticle, you can use the crosshair right in the center of the view. This type of reticle will be very helpful for you on your buck hunts with the holdover markings.
What we liked
- Features a variable magnification
- Comes with multiple accessories
- Water resistivity rating of IP65
- The scope features 2nd focal plane
- Long exit pupil and wide field of view
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Quality optical coatings including Diamond Tuff14
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t come with an illuminated reticle
- Reticle could have been thicker
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 6.3 feet to 18.8 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 8.7-inch to 13.2-inch
Reticle: Duplex
Length: 10.9-inch
Weight: 12.3 oz
Features: IP65, Aluminum T6-6061, Diamond Tuff14
8. Sightmark M1A 2.5x20mm Riflescope
The M1A Sightmark is a scope that allows you to get on your target quickly and easily. The scope comes with scout optics featuring a fixed magnification of 2.5x. With the 2nd focal plane, it will allow you to range long distances pretty fine.
The red illuminated scope comes with TDR or tapered duplex reticle. The best scout rifle scopes have a long eye relief of 8-inch. Therefore, you have a better chance while taking your shots in dim lights.
Plus, you also get a chance to explore different brightness settings as well as 0.5-inch MOA adjustability for elevation and windage. You can conveniently take your shot even if the winds get stronger.
Sightmark has nitrogen purged to ensure the outdoor performance of this illuminated scout scope even if the conditions get showery. These scout scopes are made of aluminum alloy 6061-T6 and won’t add much weight to your refile.
What we liked
- Comes with 2nd focal plane for better long-range control
- Wider exit pupil for better low light aiming
- Long eye relief for convenient use with the spectacles
- Scout rifle red dot reticle for convenient aiming
- Runs on a CR2032 battery with a good capacity
- Made of 6061-T6 Aluminum more durable field performance
- A wider FoV even at full zoom especially for a scouting scope
What we didn’t like
- Gets the influence of frequent recoils and falls apart
- Doesn’t come with a non-variable magnification
Magnification: 2.5x
Lens diameter: 20mm
Field of view: 2.4 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 8-inch
Reticle: Red fine cone
Length: 7.6 inch
Weight: 11.8 oz
Features: Shockproof, IP67, fully multi-coated, illuminated reticle
9. AIM Sports Inc 3-12X32 1 in. Scout Scope w/AO
This powerful AIM scope is equipped with a 32mm objective lens and a variable magnification that ranges from 3x to 12x. The AIM scout scope is of high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum and is pretty tough. Besides, the scope is fully resistive to shock, moisture, and fog to deliver a power-packed performance.
It is rated IPX7 for its water resistivity. It also features fully multi-coated lenses for sharper views. The cope comes with a second focal plane to view long-range targets effortlessly.
It also features a maximum exit pupil of 10.66mm and even with a narrow tube diameter of 1-inch, the scope ensures maximum light transmission and produces sharper images in low light conditions.
Another excellent feature of this scope is its single-piece construction, so there won’t be any issues in terms of durability. It has a very rigid design that is built to take a toll.
What we liked
- Comes with an adjustable objective lens for parallax tuning
- Elevation and windage are finger adjustable
- Shock resistant and fog proof
- Rated IPX7 for moisture protection
- Fully multi-coated lenses for brighter and sharper images
- Fully variable magnification ranging from 3x to 12x
- Aircraft-grade aluminum is used in the construction
What we didn’t like
- Not every gun works with this type of eye relief
- Turrets knobs are pretty hard to use
- No references marks on the tubes
Magnification: 3x to 12x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 4 feet to 14 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 1.18-inch
Reticle: Mil-dot
Length: 10.9-inch
Weight: 6 oz
Features: Aircraft aluminum construction, single-piece chassis, IPX7
10. Sun Optics Handgun/Scout 2.5×28 Hunting Riflescope
This Sun Optics riflescope comes with a 28mm objective lens and a fixed magnification of 2.5x. It comes with a tube diameter of 1-inch, so the light transmission is very smooth. This budget scout scope comes with a duplex reticle and the option of going for an illuminated reticle.
This cheap scout scope is filled with dry nitrogen to make sure it can conveniently handle shock, moisture, and fog. The fully multi-coated optics in this scope can provide you with a clear view and images to zoom in on your target with high precision.
The scope has an eye relief of almost 18 inches that makes viewing extremely comfortable. If you use shooting glasses or wear spectacles, this long eye relief will help you a lot. Its battery life is a bit of a letdown, but Sun Optics has got other things right on the spot.
What we liked
- Made of high-quality aluminum for durability
- Comes with 2nd focal plane to increase your long-range shooting precision
- Features a CR20132 battery
- The exit pupil of 11.2mm for better light transmission
- Rated IPX7 for moisture resistivity
- 1-inch tube diameter for brighter imaging performance
- Filled with dry nitrogen for better protection against the external elements
What we didn’t like
- Fixed magnification
- Short battery life
Magnification: 2.5x
Lens diameter: 28mm
Field of view: 11.5 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 17.7-inch
Reticle: Duplex
Length: 8.8-inch
Weight: 8.9 oz
Features: Shockproof, fully multi-coated, aircraft-grade aluminum design
11. AIM Sports Inc Mauser K98 Optics Combo Kit
The K98 Mauser scout scope is a good option if budget is your concern, but you won’t be compromising on quality. The scope comes with a Duplex reticle and features Picatinny weaver scout scopes mount type that holds onto your gun and allows you to conveniently take your aim even if you are moving.
The long eye relief scout scope also features a 2nd focal palace and you can shoot at longer ranges as well. The scope features a 32mm objective lens with a variable magnification ranges from 2x to 7x. It allows you to focus not only on close objects.
The Mauser K98 comes with a long eye relief of up to 10.5 inches. So you can use these long eye relief scout rifle scopes comfortably with your eyeglasses. With a larger exit pupil diameter, the scope can provide you clearer and brighter images even in low lights.
What we liked
- Ideally suitable for Mauser K98 scouting gun with the weaver mount
- Wider exit pupil for better low light performance
- Longer eye relief for comfortable use with spectacles
- It is the best scout scope for the money with a wider objective lens
- Variable magnification for better closer focus
- Lightweight construction
- Duplex reticle for better aiming
What we didn’t like
- No lens cover included
- Requires frequent reinforcements
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 4.6 feet to 14 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 8.5-inch to 10.5-inch
Reticle: Duplex
Length: 10.5inch
Weight: 9 oz
Features: Fully multi-coated, weaver mount and base
12. Leupold FX-II 2.5x28mm Fixed Power Scout Riflescope
The FX-II Leupold scout scope is equipped with a duplex reticle. It is a lightweight scope that will go well with your scouting rifle even on the go. Of course, you get the 2nd focal plane as well to work with your long-range shots, but you won’t get an illuminated reticle.
These scopes for scout rifles feature a 28mm objective lens that allows you to take your aims in low light conditions with its Duplex reticle. With a 2.5x magnification, you can easily zoom in on your target.
However, these Leupold scout rifle scopes come with a fixed magnification, so your close-range aiming won’t be that great. It will give your target very little time to react so you can quickly acquire your target and take a shot.
What we liked
- Features a T6-6061 aluminum alloy construction
- Comes with a wider FoV and a wider exit pupil
- Extremely lightweight and durable
- 28mm objective lens for better performance in low light
- Water and fog proof construction
- Duplex reticle for better long-range shots
- Equipped with a twilight light management system
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t come with an illuminated reticle
- Focus is not adjustable
- Not many mounting options available
Magnification: 2.5x
Lens diameter: 28mm
Field of view: 22 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 9.3-inch
Reticle: Duplex
Length: 10.1-inch
Weight: 7.5 oz
Features: Shockproof, water and fog proof, 2ns focal plane, Aluminum alloy 6061-T6
FAQ
What is a scout scope?
It’s a forward mounting scope with an extended eye relief for easier rifle action. You just need a bit of practice with this scope. Soon you will notice proficiency in setting your aims and take shots.
What is the best scope for a scout rifle?
Overall the best scope for scout rifle is the Burris 200261 2-7x32mm Riflescope. It has a variable magnification and comes with long eye relief.
What is the best scout scope?
The best scout scope is the Leupold VX-Freedom Scout 1.5-4×28 Scout Rifle Scope which is designed for the professionals and experienced marksmen.
What is the best Leupold scout scope?
The best Leupold scout scope is indubitably the VX-Freedom Scout 1.5-4×28 Scout Rifle Scope. It is equipped with variable magnification and comfortable eye relief.
What is the best Burris scout scope?
The best Burris scout scope is the Burris 200261 2-7x32mm Riflescope. The Burris 2×7 scout scope features long eye relief and quality optics suitable for long-range hunting.
What is the best Vortex scout scope?
The best Vortex scout scope is the Crossfire II 2-7×32 Scout Rifle Scope that comes with quality optics and a durable body to take outdoors.
![12 Best Rifle Scopes for Deer Hunting [2024]](https://www.ambientoutdoors.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Depositphotos_7629722_s-2019-768x511.jpg)