Best Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting – Top 9 Reviews, Ratings, Buyers’ Guide, FAQs & More

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The hunting sport has been loved for centuries, especially deer hunting. As a hunter, you must know that your choice of rifle scope can either break or make that experience. 

The decision to get a top aiming sight for deer hunting can be overwhelming. So, we will make this easier for you by discussing top 9 rifle scopes for deer hunting and their strengths and weaknesses.

But, before diving in, let’s look at our top three selections.


Winner

ATN X-Sight 4K Pro

best rifle scope for deer hunting

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A Smart Night and Day vision scope with long lasting battery, high resolution and a ton of other amazing features makes it our favourite pick. 

Runner Up

Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL)

best rifle scope for deer hunting

A First Focal Plane (FFP) scope available at a lower price. Its advanced multi-colored lens gives optimum brightness and color with a zooming in and out of the target reticle makes deer hunting so much easier for us.  

Also Great

Hawke Vantage Riflescope

best rifle scope for deer hunting

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A genuine high quality performance gun scope at an affordable price. Its mil dot Reticle and parallax reducing quality makes it more appealing.


Best Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting – Top 9 Reviews


#1: Best Rangefinder Scope for Deer Hunting – ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Review


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best rifle scope for deer hunting

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If you are searching for the ultimate scope for long range shots and glass quality then you know this is the one to work with.

You may be wondering what this scope has that the others don’t. Well it has an Ultra high quality 4K technology. It’s fantastic optics makes it almost impossible to miss the target.

Moreover, its ballistic calculator makes clarity a dream come true keeping in check humidity, temperature, angle, wind, range. You name it! 

What’s even more, it comes with a night vision mode, so you don’t need to worry about darkness as a barrier. Moreover, its BDC reticle will surely make it easier for you to use it the way you want to.

Features of ATN X-Sight 4K Pro

  • 5-20x magnification
  • Recoil Activated Video (RAV)
  • Night Vision Mode
  • Ballistic Calculator
  • Ultra Low Power Profile
  • Dual Stream Video Recording 
  • Obsidian Core with 2850 fps Velocity
  • Built-in RangeFinder
  • ATN Quick Detach Mount
  • ATN Battery Pack 20000mAh

Pros

  • Water proof
  • Durable
  • Fog proof
  • Variable zoom
  • Sharp imaging
  • Shock proof
  • Night vision
  • Multiple crosshairs 
  • Wi-Fi compatibility
  • Accurate rangefinder

Cons

  • Has trouble zeroing 
  • It is subject to freezing

Best Rangefinder Scope for Deer Hunting

The ATN X-Sight 4K Pro is the top recommended Rangefinder Deer Hunting because of its features that will allow you to use it in any conditions you face.


#2: Best 50mm Deer Rifle Scope – Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL) Review


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We all want long lasting strong scopes that can survive the wilderness and harsh conditions.

With this scope, zooming in has become so much easier, as it features the first focal plane (FFP) which sizes itself when you zoom in and out. The reticle etched glass is way more durable and resistant to shock. Moreover, it consists of fully multi-colored lenses providing an optimum brightness level and showing the entirety of the color spectrum.

Not only does this scope have an aluminum covered tube which protects the optics, its argon purging makes it more thermally stable and water resistant. 

Features of Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL) 

  • 6-24x Magnification
  • 50mm objective lens diameter
  • FFP reticle
  • Reticle adjustment at all powers
  • Re-sizeable reticle
  • Developed Fully Multi-Coated lenses
  • Glass etched with Reticle
  • Excellent Reticle backing
  • Durable
  • Shock resistant
  • Aluminum tube
  • Argon Purging

Pros

  • Built in throw lever
  • Durable
  • Shock proof
  • Water resistant
  • Thermal Stability
  • Variable Magnification
  • Illuminated reticle

Cons

  • Does not hold zero
  • Turret tracking unreliable

Best 50mm Deer Rifle Scope 

The top recommended 50mm deer rifle scope is Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL) because its 50mm objective lens diameter will be enough for optimal light transmission. Also, it won’t betray you in low light conditions.


#3: Best Deer Rifle Scope for the Money – Hawke Vantage Riflescope Review


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best rifle scope for deer hunting

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This scope has its money’s worth right in its name. It’s perfect for close shooting with its parallax correcting objective lens at 9m. Its precise bdc reticle and mil spacing on 10x provides many aim points to hold over and under.

This is a high quality and excellent in performing adaptable scope with 11 layers of multi-coated lens delivering high end resolution in color and contrast. Besides, it is one of the best cheap rifle scopes for deer hunting.

Furthermore, its 1 inch mono chassis tube adds strength and integrity. What more to love, right?

Features of Hawke Vantage Riflescope

  • 3-9×40 Magnification
  • Adjustable Objective lens
  • Parallax reduction factor
  • Enhanced multi-coated lens
  • High resolution
  • 10 yards close shooting
  • Durable
  • Harsh conditions resistant
  • High performance 

Pros

  • Variable Magnification
  • Durable
  • Adjustable Objective
  • Settable turrets
  • Holds zero
  • Thinner reticle hold target shooting
  • Clear optics

Cons

  • No illuminated reticle

Best Deer Rifle Scope for the Money

The Hawke Vantage Riflescope is the top scope for money as it offers a bunch of features at an amazing price.


#4: Best Durable Rifle Scope to Hunt Deer – Monstrum Tactical 1-6×24 Rifle Scope Review


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best rifle scope for deer hunting

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This tactical scope offers great performance for mid-way or close range shooting with its 1-6x magnifying range.

You’ll love its first focal plane illuminated reticle with readable consistent ranging information despite magnification. Moreover, It has a strong aircraft aluminium tube filled with nitrogen making it water-proof and durable.

We were amazed by its illuminated reticle that is controlled by an inline dial with more than one brightness options. You’ll find this feature quite useful while hunting the wildlife in low light conditions or in dark.

Features of Monstrum Tactical 1-6×24 Rifle Scope

  • 1-6x magnification range
  • 24mm objective lens diameter
  • FFP MOA Reticle
  • Illuminating Reticle
  • Fast range estimation
  • Holdover correction
  • Dial controlled Illumination
  • Stout Aluminium Packaging
  • Charged Nitrogen filled Tube
  • Comes with scope rings, shade, and lens covers

Pros

  • Holds zero
  • Adjustable turrets
  • Durable
  • Water-proof
  • Fog resistant
  • Crisp variable magnification
  • Clear glass
  • Light-weight 
  • High performance

Cons

  • Mounting is a bit tricky

Best Durable Rifle Scope to Hunt Deer

The Monstrum Tactical scope is top durable rifle scope to hunt deer because it is well-built, unmatched in its sturdiness and will stand by your hunting endeavours for a long time. 


#5: Best High Performance Scope for Deer Hunting – Redfield Revolution 3-9x40mm Review


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This rifle scope provides the most superior optical ability and mechanical functions that are unmatched. It is a second focal plane scope with BDC reticle and illuminating lens systems providing cut-edge image quality and light optimization. 

The time for wind or bullet drop is compensated quickly by the help of stadia lines present on the crosshairs set at two MOA additions. It can also serve to estimate the range of other known objects.

What’s more, it has a lockable eyepiece which will provide an eye relief without having to adjust it. 

Features of Redfield Revolution 3-9x40mm

  • 3-9mm magnification
  • 1 inch tube diameter
  • ¼ moa windage and elevation
  • Tac-moa reticle
  • Rapid target acquisition
  • Illuminator lens system
  • Second focal plane reticle
  • Multi-coated optics
  • Variable magnifying power

Pros

  • Leupold Warranty
  • High resolution optics
  • Clear cut edge reticle
  • Water-proof
  • Shock-proof
  • Fog-proof
  • Generous eye relief
  • Holdable turrets
  • Audible windage and elevation adjustments

Cons

  • Doesn’t include shade and rings
  • Adjustments are not great

Best High Performance Scope for Deer Hunting

The Redfield Revolution 3-9x40mm is a great high performance scope because of its accurate precision and excellent resolution. 


#6: Best Low Light Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting – Millett 4-16×50 Illuminated Tactical Riflescope Review


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The Millett brand has been known to deliver value, and this scope is among the top tactical scopes that you can find.

Besides, it is an amazing scope if you want a clear aim, of your target, for long range hunting. It’s illuminated reticle and magnification provides a spot on crystal clear shot, and with the help of this you’ll never miss the target.

What’s amazing about it is that its multi-coated optics give generous eye relief and optimal light transmission as well.

Features of Millett 4-16×50 Illuminated Tactical Riflescope

  • 4-16x magnification range 
  • 50mm objective lens
  • Mil dot bar reticle
  • Adjustable illumination
  • Reticule accuracy
  • Multi-coated eyepiece
  • 3.5 inches eye relief
  • 0.1mm adjustments
  • 30mm tube diameter
  • SFP
  • Matte black finish
  • Parallax adjustment

Pros

  • Adjustable turrets
  • Holds zero
  • Clarity
  • Durable
  • Lockdown rings
  • Night vision mode
  • Accurate
  • Illuminated crosshairs
  • Clear optics
  • Reliable in low light conditions

Cons

  • Reticle fades at higher power settings

Best Low Light Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting

The Millett 4-16×50 Illuminated Tactical aiming sight is an amazing low light rifle scope for deer hunting because of its illuminated reticle and large objective size. 


#7: Best Rifle Scope for 500 Yards – Swarovski Z3 4-12×50 BT Review


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best rifle scope for deer hunting

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We all face most of our problems with scopes when it comes to zeroing, well not with this scope. It’s ballistic turret gives you three more zeros and makes hunting so much easier. A standard range scope would give you 100 yards but this one would give you 500 yards. 

Additionally, it’s superb glass and ballistic turrets set a new standard. All you need to do is adjust color coded rings to known distances and rotate the turret to match the colored dot. A spot on shot is guaranteed. 

However, it features a new technology, and this little guy is worth every penny.

Features of Swarovski Z3 4-12×50 BT

  • 4-12x magnification
  • 50mm objective lens 
  • Variable power
  • 4W reticle 
  • 90mm eye relief
  • ¼ click MOA
  • Multi-coated Optics
  • 109 yards parallax adjustment
  • Ballistic turret
  • Three extra zeros

Pros

  • Water-proof
  • Shock proof
  • Optics Cover
  • Windage reticle
  • Accurate
  • Holds zero

Cons

  • Non Adjustable Parallax

Best Rifle Scope for 500 Yards

TheSwarovski Z3 4-12×50 BT is a top aiming sight for 500 yards as it will solve all your zeroing troubles and give you a flawless long range aiming experience.


#8: Best Scope for Beginner Deer Hunters – Meopta Optics Meostar R2 1.7-10X42 Review 


best rifle scope for deer hunting

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Aren’t we all worried about purchasing equipment, we need to take into the wild, that might get damaged? Well, not with this one!

All worries are set aside with this as its ion-assisted coating protects the lens in harsh conditions. Furthermore, this product matches military standards and serves well outdoors.

Its fast focus eyepiece rapidly aims your target and gives extra diopter travel providing a wider visual range. You’ll like its advanced adjustable windage and elevation control that makes accurate zeroing a guarantee.

Features of Meopta Optics Meostar R2 1.7-10X42

  • 1.7-10x magnification
  • 42mm objective lens diameter
  • Ion-assisted
  • Multi-coated lens
  • Meoshield
  • Durable and strong
  • Fast focus eyepiece
  • Wide visual range
  • Extra diopter travel
  • Posi-finger adjustable elevation and windage
  • ¼ MOA adjustment
  • Audible clicks

Pros

  • Water-proof
  • Fog-proof
  • Harsh conditions survivor
  • Holds zero
  • Clarity
  • Illuminated lens
  • High transmission rate
  • Variable zooming range
  • Light transmission
  • Durable

Cons

  • Is not reliable in all light conditions

Best Scope for Beginner Deer Hunters

The top aiming sight for beginner deer hunters is Meopta Optics Meostar R2 1.7-10X42 because it is easy to use, relieves all worries of precision and provides excellent clarity.


#9: Best Long Range Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting – UTG 3-12X44 30mm Review


best rifle scope for deer hunting

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We all get a bit skeptical when it comes to  low price scopes, who knows if it’s worth the risk right? But this one is definitely worth your attention.

However, it is a top aiming sight for long range shots, with excellent tactical range estimation mil dot 36-color reticle. It has a strong support platform protecting the optics from drops and harsh weather conditions. Moreover, it works well in low light conditions.

It has a locking and resettable zero system to help with all zeroing problems which makes it perfect for shooting at a long range.

Features of UTG 3-12X44 30mm

  • 3-12x magnification range 
  • 30mm objective lens diameter
  • 36-color EZ tap 
  • Mil dot range estimation
  • 30mm support tube
  • Nitrogen charge
  • Multi-coated lens
  • Sunshade included
  • Circuit and house design for illumination
  • Premium locking zero

Pros

  • Tough
  • Durable
  • Water-proof
  • Fog-proof
  • Shock-proof
  • Holds zero
  • Long-range scope
  • Quick focus knob
  • Clear optics
  • Lockable windage and elevation
  • Focuses beyond 100 yards

Cons

  • Rigid rings
  • Tricky to mount

Best Long Range Rifle Scope for Deer Hunting

The UTG 3-12X44 30mm is the top long range arms scope because of its generous magnification range, and it brings you the finest quality while aiming beyond 100 yards. 


Buyers’ Guide

rifle scope for deer hunting

Some features to consider when buying a best deer hunting rifle scope

  • Eye Relief

Every firearm recoils after a shot is fired, and if the eye relief isn’t suitable then it can be pretty violent. If scopes have an eye relief of 1 to 2 inches then the firearm will recoil directly into the dominant eye of the hunter. 

Therefore, it should be adjusted to at least 3 to 4 inches to ensure a safe recoil. 

Moreover, you can also go for a scope that offers a generous eye relief.

  • Objective Lens

Objective lens is quite an important feature to consider when looking for scopes. The diameter of the lens determines the amount of light transmitted. A larger diameter is usually preferred since it’ll give you a brighter image. 

Moreover, the light transmission needs to be consistent with the time at dawn or dusk when there is little light to see properly.

However, the optimum and preferred diameter of the objective lens is in between 30-50mm which will fulfill your needs of light transmission.

  • Ease of Access

There is already a lot of fuss in hunting since you need to consider various factors. So, go for the scopes that are easy to use and quickly mountable will be handy to make hunting simpler.

  • Reticle

Reticles, also known as crosshairs, are markings on the glass to show you an aim point. Additionally, there are many types of reticles such as ballistic, etched, mil dot, plex, BDC, and duplex. However, it’s better to have scopes that have a reticle with dots or hash marks. 

Hunters also go for complex ones which show elevation and windage markings for distance. 

Nevertheless, we’d recommend you go for whatever you find easier to use. 

  • Price and Warranty

Price isn’t the major issue as long as you have a scope worth what you spent. Every optics offers you different warranty time periods in case of damage to the equipment. Getting details from manufacturers will influence your decision a lot.

  • Durability

Any equipment taken to the wild is prone to damage in harsh conditions. Having a strong aiming sight makes it resistant to these circumstances. Moreover, an aluminium coated tube filled with nitrogen helps make the aiming sight fog, water and shock resistant.

  • Multi-coated Lenses

Hunting shouldn’t only be restricted to day time. For hunters who prefer night time, dusk or dawn to hunt then multi-coated lenses help a lot with providing optimum light transmission and clear crisp images to give you amazing visuals.

What magnification do you need for deer hunting?

A scope providing a wide range of view and exceptional transmission of light is hard to find. Looking for a scope that provides the most magnification means you can see at a longer range or far off distances. Most hunters prefer a range of 4-16x  which is good for close shooting. 

But, for a powerful shot for long ranged shots a 6-18×50 scope serves the finest. 

You need a magnifying power looking into farther places in the wilderness, so making sure you have the right scope. Besides, your magnification is considered long ranged if it focuses beyond 100 yards. 

Types of scopes ideal for hunting deer

A good scope should provide you with easy aim and target, so you never miss a shot. It should be easy to carry and easy to mount on your firearm. Also, it should provide good eye relief and be user friendly.

Moreover, a good scope is large so as to give good light transmission even in darker settings. This is what gives you clear visuals. 

Finally, it should be resistant to wear and tear.   

FAQs

What size scope is best for deer hunting?

A 3-9×40 scope would be great for deer hunting. A simple 3-9×40 scope would be enough for daylight shots and for close range shooting. Besides, with such scopes you can also hunt elk, whitetails, or mule deer.

What are the best rifle scopes for hunting?

ProductMagnificationObjective Lens
#1. ATN X-Sight 4K Pro5-20x
#2. Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL)6-24x56mm
#3. Hawke Vantage Riflescope3-9x40mm

What is the best hunting scope for the money?

Following are the best hunting scope for the money:

  • ATN X-Sight 4K Pro – Best Rangefinder Scope for Deer Hunting 
  • Best 50mm Deer Rifle Scope – Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL)
  • Best Deer Rifle Scope for the Money – Hawke Vantage Riflescope
  • Monstrum Tactical 1-6×24 Rifle Scope – Best Durable Rifle Scope to Hunt Deer

What is the best vortex scope for deer hunting?

The best vortex optics scope for deer hunting includes:

  • Vortex Optics Viper HS-T 6-24×50 SFP Riflescope
  • Vortex Optics Diamondback Tactical First Focal Plane Riflescope
  • Vortex Crossfire II Adjustable Objective 30mm Riflescope
  • Vortex Crossfire II 1-inch Tube

What is the best scope magnification for deer hunting?

Many hunters can hit the deer, at 200 yards, with a 3x or 4x scope. However, for long-range shooting, you can go for variable scopes that offer higher magnification.

Are konus scopes any good?

Yes, the konus pro line is a great scope. The scopes hold zero perfectly, and if you keep the magnification around 20X or less on the 6-24×44 scopes they work outstanding. Besides, they offer a lifetime warranty as well.

Do I need a scope for deer hunting?

Yes, you do need a scope, based on the amount of recoil and stopping power of your bullet, for deer hunting. Although deer isn’t a small animal, you still need a scope with good magnification to take accurate shots.

What is the best reticle for hunting?

Duplex reticle is a great reticle for hunting. Whether it is big game hunting or shooting your pery in thicker bush, this reticle won’t betray you. It will provide you precision needed to strike the kill zone.

What is easier – Mil or MOA?

MOA, minute of angle, is a measurement of an angle within a circle, like milliradians. Whereas, mil is larger in size than the moa. However, moa is easier to understand than mil.

Final Thoughts

Our review comes to an end with all the information you need to decide for the purchase of the finest rifle scope for deer hunting. Our favorite scope is the ATN X-Sight 4K Pro because it has many intriguing features and advanced technology. Not only does it fulfill your hunting needs, but it also has additional qualities.

If you want exceptional cut edge clear visuals then the scope to go for is Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24×50 (MIL). However, Hawke Vantage Riflescope has an amazing accurate mil dot reticle giving you spot on targets.

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