12 Best Shotgun Scopes Worth the Money (2024)
A proper scope can make a world of difference if you are in a shotgun only situation (whether you are hunting whitetail or shooting slugs). The best shotgun scope offers high-quality views, is shockproof, and doesn’t break the bank.
Top options
Best shotgun scope
Styrka S3
2-7x32mm
Best red dot sight
Vortex Venom
1×26.5mm
Best for the money
Sig Sauer Sierra
2.5-8x30mm
Best shotgun scope
1. Burris FastFire III Red Dot Reflex Sight
The Burris FastFire III features a red dot reflex sight and is one of the most versatile of its kind on the market. It’s so versatile that you can mount it on your shotgun. Handgun or even a hunting rifle. It acquires your target fast and provides you with precision.
Lightweight and compact to use, this best scope for shotgun won’t disturb your handling or balance. This scope for shotgun comes with an eye relief of 68.58mm with 1x parallax magnification. Extremely user-friendly, this Burris shotgun scope features elevation and windage adjustments that don’t require much gunsmithing from you.
It features a 21mm objective lens and provides you a linear FoV of 190 feet at 100 yards. The Picatinny mounting type works well with most shotguns on the market and also boasts weather resistance. It is the best shotgun scope you can buy for a variety of purposes, including hunting, sports, and home defense.
What we liked
- This non-illuminated shotgun scope is comfortable for viewing with glasses
- Lightweight and compact
- Picatinny mount works with several shotgun models
- A good shotgun scope as its operable temperature ranges from -10F to 130F
- Linear FoV of 190 feet at 100 yards
- These scopes for 12 gauge shotguns come with 3 MOA Dot reticle
- Can be used with pistols, and rifles as well
What we didn’t like
- A non-variable magnification
- More like 10 MOA
- The battery cover is poorly designed
Magnification: 1x
Lens diameter: 21mm
Field of view: 190 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 2.7-inch
Reticle: 3 MOA Dot
Length: 1.8-inch
Weight: 0.9 oz
Features: Picatinny mount, parallax-free, weather resistance
2. Sig Sauer Sierra3BDX 2.5-8x30mm Rifle Scope
Sierra 3 by Sig Sauer is a premium quality shotgun scope that comes with the BDX R1 reticle. It also features a 2nd focal plane and if you are looking to improve your shotgun marksmanship, this is the best choice for you.
Granted that this tactical shotgun scope is a bit heavy, it boasts a variable magnification of 2.5x to 8x with an objective lens diameter of 30mm. As it is slightly heavier than others in this category, it will go well with lightweight shotguns.
These shotgun scopes for deer hunting feature Sig Sauer’s BDX technology, which allows you to get the exact holdover location on your targets when you use it together with your BDX enabled Kilo rangefinder. The lenses of these tactical shotgun scopes come with Sig Sauer’s signature SpectraCoat and it can handle recoils pretty well. It is one of the best tactical shotgun sights available on the market.
What we liked
- BDX R1 reticle for quick target acquiring and rangefinder capabilities
- The variable magnification that ranges from 2.5x to 8x
- 2nd focal plane enabled for better long-range shooting
- The exit pupil of up to 8.8mm for clearer viewing
- Decent eye relief of up to 4.41 inches
- SpectraCoate handles glare pretty well
- Fog and waterproof construction
What we didn’t like
- Battery life could have been better
- Not a night vision shotgun scope
Magnification: 2.5x to 8x
Lens diameter: 30mm
Field of view: 13.2 feet to 39.8 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 3.46-inch to 4.41 inch
Reticle: BDX R1
Length: 11.59-inch
Weight: 19.36 oz
Features: Fog and waterproof, 2nd focal plane, anti-reflective coating
3. Vortex Viper 1x24mm 6 MOA Red Dot Sight
The Viper features a 24mm objective lens with 6 MOA red dot reticle and 1x magnification. It ensures clear and quick targeting and different background colors and light levels. The power and illumination controls are very easy to use, which is Vortex’s specialty.
These shotgun scopes can mount very low and you can use them on your pistol and handguns that come with cutout slides. The scope has a hard-anodized finish and aluminum construction for better on-fIeld resilience. These shotgun scopes for deer hunting come with 6 MOA dot reticle that can acquire targets fast and in different backgrounds.
The scope has fully multi-coated lenses and it comes with a Picatinny mount. It runs on a CR2032 battery that can last up to 30,000 hours. With Armortek lens finish, the scope can conveniently handle shotgun recoils too.
What we liked
- Long and comfortable eye relief
- Hard anodized finish for better on-field performance
- Single piece construction for durability
- These sights for shotguns are water and shockproof
- Your purchase includes a range of accessories and add-ons
- Very versatile and works with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol
- The long battery life of 30,000 hours
What we didn’t like
- Not a large objective lens or high zoom
- Not the best options for mid-to-long range shooting
Magnification: 1x
Lens diameter: 24mm
Field of view: 18 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 2.7-inch
Reticle: 6 MOA Dot
Length: 1.8-inch
Weight: 1.1 oz
Features: Water and shockproof, single-piece chassis, Armortek lens coating
4. Styrka 2-7x32mm S3 Shotgun Riflescope
The ST91010 Styrka shotgun scope has a hard-anodized finish with a plex reticle. The 1-inch tube diameter makes it a top choice for better light flow from one end to the other and features a 2nd focal plane to ensure you take your shots at longer ranges.
These turkey shotgun scopes come with a water resistivity rating of IPX7 and can hold up well in moist conditions. These turkey hunting sights are all about crisp views and perform very well in broad daylight. With all-metal construction, these shotgun scopes for turkey hunting are completely fog and waterproof. If you are looking for enhanced contrast and better imaging quality, then you don’t need to look any further.
These best turkey scopes also come with a 2nd focal plane and a wider FoV. You have better chances of taking out your target as you can see clearly and have better intel on the surroundings. Adjusting the scope according to your requirements is pretty easy too.
What we liked
- Fully multi-coated lens for sharper imaging
- Strong, lightweight, and durable
- Quick to acquire the target and easy to adjust
- Fully sealed housing to keep fog and moisture away
- Accurate elevation and windage adjustments
- Variable magnification for better short-range shooting
- Wider exit pupil for comfortable viewing
What we didn’t like
- Not illuminated
- Doesn’t come with 1st focal plane for shorter ranges
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 13.2 feet to 46.9 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 3.9-inch to 4.69-inch
Reticle: Plex
Length: 11.62-inch
Weight: 15.8 oz
Features: Fog and waterproof, hard anodized body, 2md focal plane
5. Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Riflescope with V-Plex Reticle
The Vortex Diamondback shotgun scope is a high-quality scope as it comes with a variable zoom of 2x to 7x and it boasts an objective lens of 35mm. These compact shotgun scopes by Vortex feature a V-Plex DBK RIM reticle that can get to the target and reduces your shooting time.
It has a hard-anodized construction for durability, while the 1-inch tube diameter of this scope makes it an excellent choice for maximum light transmission for better viewing. These shotgun rifle sights can resist a brisk recoil with ease due to their single-piece chassis.
Vortex has purged it with argon gas, which further clarifies your viewing at high zooms. You won’t have to deal with fog or moisture no matter what the conditions are when you are using this turkey hunting scope. The scope also features a 2nd focal plane, so you can make those perfect shorts even at longer ranges.
What we liked
- Made of aircraft-grade aluminum for a resilient performance
- The best scope for a shotgun handles fog and moisture pretty well
- A good choice for long-range shooting
- Wider exit pupil for sharper images at high zooms
- Broader FoV ranging from 19.3 feet to 64.3 feet at 100 yards
- Fully multi-coated lenses for better viewing
- Ring mounting works well with multiple guns
What we didn’t like
- Lens caps are flimsy
- Rear eyepiece is too big for a little rimfire scope
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 35mm
Field of view: 19.3 feet to 64.3 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 3.1-inch to 3.5-inch
Reticle: V-Plex
Length: 11.6-inch
Weight: 14.2 oz
Features: Fog and waterproof, single-piece chassis, argon purged
6. SightMark Core SX 2-7x32SGR BDC Shotgun Scope
The Core SX SightMark features a variable magnification that ranges from 2x to 7x and boasts a 32mm objective lens. So here’s another scope that works well in dull light environments. These are the best shotgun scopes for hunters.
Its one-inch tube diameter ensures the maximum amount of light is acquired from the surroundings to produce sharper images even at higher zooms. If you are a slug gun shooter, this shotgun scope for deer hunting is the best option for you. Because it comes with the 2nd focal plane and you can take your shots and longer ranges as well. These are the best shotgun scope for slugs.
Full aluminum construction and 0.25 MOA Dot reticle, this scope is built for a modern-day shooter. With its weaver mount, it can conveniently attach it to your gun and quickly acquire targets of your choice. With fully multi-coated glass lenses, this scope is your trusty partner on any hunt.
What we liked
- Single piece 1-inch tube for durability
- The turkey shotgun scope features aircraft-grade aluminum construction
- Shock, fog and waterproof and operable win a wide temperature range
- These are the best sights for shotgun and they feature wide objective lens diameter with variable magnification
- 2nd focal plane makes long-range shooting easy
- Wider FoV and exit pupil for better situational awareness and viewing
- The turkey scope comes with a longer eye relief of up to 4.7 inches
What we didn’t like
- Not the best choice for low light situation
- High zooms can be a bit blurry at times
Magnification: 2x to 7x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 14.4 feet to 54.4 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 4-inch to 4.7-inch
Reticle: 2 MOA Dot (SGR BDC)
Length: 11.26-inch
Weight: 14 oz
Features: Shockproof, aircraft-grade aluminum body, 2nd focal plane
7. Aimpoint Pro Patrol Rifle Optic Red Dot Riflescope
The Aimpoint Patrol rifle scope comes with quality shotgun optics and a QRP2 mount and a top choice for your AR15 rifle. Best suited for bigger shotguns, this scope boasts a large 38mm objective lens. This best slug gun scope is equipped for shooting or hunting in dim light environments. Your scoped shotgun will do pretty well once you arm it with Aimpoint.
This high-tech scope for shotgun deer hunting has an anodized aluminum alloy body and comes with a 2 MOA Dot reticle. Its tube diameter is broader than one inch, so you can use it for better light transmission and for clearer, sharper images. The scope is completely submersible up to 150 feet in the water. And these 20 gauge shotgun scopes feature a battery life of over 30,000 hours.
With an operable temperature ranging from -49F to 160F, this is a tough shotgun scope with an anti-reflex multi-layer coating. With a linear FoV of around 20 feet at 100 yards, you can view the surroundings of your target and make a well-informed shot. These are good shotgun scopes on the field.
What we liked
- Tough anodized aluminum alloy body
- Wider 38mm objective lens for better light gathering
- 2 MOA Dot reticle for quick target acquisition
- Anti-reflex multi-layer coating for an excellent anti-glare performance
- Long battery life and wider operable temperature range
- Water submersible up to 150 feet
- Lightweight construction
What we didn’t like
- Battery (DL1/3N) is hard to find
- Higher price tag
Magnification: 1x
Lens diameter: 38mm
Field of view: 20 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 2.7-inch
Reticle: 2 MOA Dot
Length: 5.1-inch
Weight: 11.6 oz
Features: Shockproof, fog and water-resistant, long battery life
8. Barska 4×20 M16 Electro Sight Riflescope
The M16 Electro Barska is a budget-friendly and quality shotgun scope that you can easily use for your shotgun. Barska has used high-quality optics in the construction of this shotgun scope. And the best part is you have access to an eye relief of 68.58mm. So even if you wear glasses, you can use this scope conveniently.
It delivers a top performance when it comes to quick and accurate target acquisition. These scopes for shotgun come with 4x magnification and you can zoom in your target with the help of a 20mm objective lens and an exit pupil of 5mm. So shooting in low light conditions won’t be an issue either. It is the best shotgun scope for deer hunting.
The linear FoV that the 12 gauge scope can manage is 22 feet at 100 yards. This scope for a 12 gauge gun comes with a 30/30 reticle with no illumination, so you will have to work things out when shooting in low light. With the help of a second focal plane, you can use it for shooting at longer ranges as well. The M16 Electro boasts a 0.5 MOA Dot reticle and also has a carry handle base. This scope on a shotgun is a good choice for different types of shotguns and rifles.
What we liked
- 4x magnification for detailed zooming
- 20mm objective lens with 5mm exit pupil for better shooting in low light
- Equally suitable for shotguns and rifles
- Easy to mount scopes on shotguns
- With the second focal plane, you can shoot at longer ranges with precision
- This scope for a shotgun has a long eye relief
- Carry handle base inbuilt
What we didn’t like
- Narrow field of view
- Not robust in construction
Magnification: 4x
Lens diameter: 20mm
Field of view: 22 feet at 1000 yards
Eye relief: 2.7-inch
Reticle: 0.5 MOA Dot
Length: 6.9-inch
Weight: 13.4 oz
Features: Quick installation, fog, and waterproof, 2nd focal plane
9. Konus Aim Pro 1.5-5×32 Riflescope
This entry-level shotgun scope comes with a variable magnification ranges from 1.5x to 5x and features an objective lens of 32mm. Therefore, if you are looking for high accuracy in your shots and like to work with a bigger objective lens with variable zooming, you don’t need to look any further.
This device can work as your authentic riflescope as it comes with a 1-inch tube diameter. So if you are the one who frequently goes on the field with dim light conditions, this is the best shotgun scope for you. It comes with a 0.25 MOA dot reticle. It is the best shotgun scopes for deer hunting.
The reticle is glass etched will make sure you take your aim quickly, both at long and short ranges. This kind of technology is reserved for military application and ensures you get the best out of your shotgun whenever you take it out.
The 12 gauge shotgun scope has fully multi-coated lenses and Konus has nitrogen purged it. So whatever the conditions are on the field, you don’t have an excuse to miss your shot. These shotgun sights are also immune to heavy caliber recoil.
What we liked
- These slug gun scopes have a wider objective lens for more light gathering
- Variable magnification ranging from 1.5x to 5x
- 1-inch tube diameter for better light transmission
- Exit pupil ranging from 6.4mm to 21.3mm
- Fully multi-coated glass lenses
- These sights come with shock, fog, and waterproofing
- Glass etched reticle for quick target acquisition
What we didn’t like
- Slightly heavy for a mini shotgun
- Doesn’t respond quickly to any aiming adjustments
Magnification: 1x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 20 feet to 60 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 2.9-inch
Reticle: 0.25 MOA Dot
Length: 11.8-inch
Weight: 14.8 oz
Features: Fog, shock, and waterproof, fully multi-coated, heavy caliber recoil proof
10. Konus Konushot 3 3-12×40 Shotgun Scope
Konushot 3 is another budget-friendly option to consider even if you don’t want to dial down on features. This scope shotgun boasts a variable magnification that ranges from 3x to 12x. It also comes with an objective lens diameter of 40mm. So with the best shotgun optic, you will have a better view of your target.
The metal construction of this 20 gauge shotgun scope is designed to hold up against most extreme environments. These cheap shotgun scopes can even handle altitude changes pretty well. For this price, you are getting the best deal because these specs are not available in this category. These are the best shotgun scopes for the money.
These shotgun scopes for sale come with a wider exit pupil as well as a broader FoV. Even with its quality optics and metal construction, the scope only weighs under 14 ounces. These shotgun sights for deer hunting also feature a 30/30 reticle for quicker target acquisition. But with this scope on a shotgun, you will notice it slows down a bit even if you increase the zoom to its maximum.
What we liked
- Dry nitrogen filled for better performance in the outfield
- Variable magnification for better aiming at longer and shorter ranges
- This sight for shotguns features full metal construction for sturdiness
- Convenient to adjust accordion to your requirements
- Wider linear FoV for better situational intel
- Best shotgun scope for the money
- 40mm objective lens performs well in low light
What we didn’t like
- Not the best choice for shooting in tough conditions
- Not suitable to use with R700
- This scope for 20 gauge shotgun doesn’t take heavy-caliber recoils very well
Magnification: 3x to 12x
Lens diameter: 40mm
Field of view: 6.9 feet to 27.4 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 3-inch
Reticle: 30/30
Length: 13.1-inch
Weight: 13.7 oz
Features: Shock, fog and waterproof, dry nitrogen filled, metal chassis
11. TruGlo 4x32mm Shotgun Scope
The TruGlo TG8504CD is a shotgun scope with a Realtree finish that will keep you camouflaged in the woods. Geared towards the shotgun hunters, this scope is a true budget-friendly option if your preference is shooting smaller targets at shorter distances.
It is the best shotgun sight and comes with a diamond ballistic reticle that significantly reduces your time to shoot and ensures a good hit even in smaller targets. You can conveniently take down fowls, doves, and turkeys with it.
The camo shotgun scope comes with fully coated glass lenses for superior accuracy at shorter ranges. Its housing is scratch resistant and durable and it can hold itself well in tough conditions. These are the best shotgun sights for turkey hunting.
The scope also features heavy rubber protection to safeguard your eye from any damage due to recoil if in case you have misjudged its eye relief. It features a weaver mount and your trusted partner in putting some great tasting birds on your table.
What we liked
- 4x magnification with a decent FoV of 24 feet at 100 yards
- 32mm objective lens acquired plenty of light from the surroundings
- Realtree finish for a better camouflage
- Features diamond reticle best suited for turkey hunting
- Scratch-resistant and durable
- This shotgun with scope is super lightweight
- Excellent for short ranging shooting at smaller targets
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t come with any anti-glare features
- Fixed magnification
Magnification: 4x
Lens diameter: 32mm
Field of view: 24 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 4-inch
Reticle: Diamond ballistic
Length: 8-inch
Weight: 11.4 oz
Features: Scratchproof, Realtree finish, diamond ballistic reticle
12. Vortex Venom 1×26.5mm Red Dot Sight
The Venom Vortex CR1632 comes with an objective lens diameter of 26.5mm and has 1x magnification. This best sight for shotgun comes with a red dot reticle with ten different brightness settings. No matter what the conditions are, the Venom will keep it bright and accurate for you. These are the best shotgun sights for home defense.
These turkey hunting scopes come with illumination controls that will allow you to quickly adjust the settings without altering your position. You can also replace the batteries from the top without removing the scope from your gun. It can handle recoils pretty well and boasts an eye relief of 2.7 inches. It means that these rifle sights for shotgun are pretty comfortable for you to use with eyeglasses. The Venom is also one of the best Remington 870 scopes.
The glass optics of this scope are fully multi-coated and the scope features a Picatinny mount that is very convenient to use with a variety of guns. The battery of these scopes for Remington 870 also runs for long runs, so you don’t have to do any replacements frequently. It is the best home defense shotgun sight that money can buy.
What we liked
- Armortek finish for better outdoor performance
- Water and shockproof
- Single-piece chassis to keep the cope durable
- Different brightness settings to keep your eye free from any strain
- Fully multi-coated lenses
- Comes with a variety of accessories
- Wide operable temperature range
What we didn’t like
- Only comes with 1x zoom
- Battery is difficult to install
Magnification: 1x
Lens diameter: 26.5mm
Field of view: 50 feet at 100 yards
Eye relief: 2.7-inch
Reticle: 3 MOA Dot
Length: 1.9-inch
Weight: 16.7 oz
Features: Hard anodized, Picatinny mount, Armortek, waterproof
FAQ
How to sight in a scope?
It’s all about aligning where you are posting your scope and where the gun’s barrel is pointed. You need to use a stable platform and look directly through the gun’s barrel. Move the rope around until you find your target. Now align it to make it appear in the center of the bore. Make the alignment and don’t move your gun.
Now, look through your scope and see where the reticle is pointed. As you are looking through the scope make your elevation and windage adjustments until the reticle is aligned with the center of your target. For any adjustments, you need to perform these steps repeatedly until fully satisfied.
What is the best shotgun slug scope?
The best shotgun slug scope is the SightMark Core SX 2-7x32SGR BDC Shotgun Scope.
Is there a difference between a rifle scope and a shotgun scope?
Yes, the effective range of both the scopes differ. A rifle scope is designed to work for targets that are 300+ yards away. A shotgun scope is effective for working within 100 yards.
What is the most accurate shotgun?
Mossberg 500 Series and Remington 870 are two of the most accurate tactical shotguns, you can find on the market.
Does Vortex make shotgun scopes?
Yes, Vortex does make shotgun scope. The Vortex Diamondback 2-7×35 Rimfire Shotgun Scope and Vortex Venom 1×26.5mm Red Dot Sight are two of their best.
What is the best shotgun scope for duck hunting?
The Konus Konushot-3 3-12×40 Rifle Scope and the Aimpoint Pro Patrol Rifle Optic Red Dot Riflescope are the best scopes for shotguns for duck hunting.
Why do people put scopes on shotguns?
Most people use shotguns as their primary hunting weapons. These shotgun scope can help them aim their targets with higher accuracy because they are using them on smaller targets like doves, ducks, rabbits, and turkeys, etc.
Can I use a rifle scope on a slug gun?
Yes, you can use a rifle scope on your slug gun as long as the mounts are compatible. They will significantly improve your marksmanship.
Does Leupold make a shotgun scope?
Yes, Leupold makes shotgun and muzzleloader rifle scopes and is good in quality but they are expensive.
What is the best scope for a Savage 220?
Overall, the Burris FastFire III Red Dot Reflex Shotgun Sight is a good choice but if you are looking for premium quality then choose the Sig Sauer Sierra3BDX 2.5-8x30mm Rifle Scope and go though pour shotgun scope review above.
