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If you’re looking to invest in a new long-yard scope, we’re here to help. We review the best scopes that will actually get you ringing steel at 1000 yards. Read more for detailed specs, standout features, and pros and cons.
Find out what non-negotiable features to consider when shopping for a 1k scope, plus get answers to a few frequently asked questions.
At A Glance: Our Top Picks For Best 1000 yard scope
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Yes, 1000 yard scopes should fit on almost any hunting firearm, from standard deer rifles to tactical assault rifles.
Almost all modern rifles either have an inbuilt (or integral) scope base or are compatible with a separate scope base. Don’t be intimidated if you have to buy a scope mount: You can install these accessories on almost any rifle.
The exception is antique rifles: If you own an older rifle built before telescopic sights became a standard firearm accessory, you may have to tinker with it or get a custom mount. Especially for older firearms, gunsmiths are recommended.
The best 1000 yard scope for you likely won’t be the same as your favorite hunting buddy’s first choice: Everyone is unique. However, several features are essential when you’re scoping out potential scopes (see what we did there?):
The glass should have an anti-fog and anti-reflective coating. Light transmission must be stellar to provide a clear, high-contrast visual of your prey.
Opt for magnification that’s a minimum of 9x. Ideally, the higher the magnification range, the better. The option should be there if you need it for spotting.
Reticles can vary dramatically between scopes and are more a matter of personal preference. However, the best 1000 yard scope should have a reticle that’s all about precision. That means an uncluttered crosshair and automatic calculations of bullet trajectory over different ranges.
There are two things to consider here: The Minute of Angle (MOA) and MOA graduation.
The MOA refers to how many shots your rifle can deliver, consistently, at a set distance. Graduation refers to how you can finesse it every time you turn the turret knob.
You want at least 40 MOA and fine graduation. For example, if you can graduate the MOA by one-quarter, that’s more precise than one-half.
Recoil can be a force to be reckoned with. A good scope should include springs or other protective features to stand up to repeated shocks.
We round up our top choices of the best 1000 yard scopes. Find out what real buyers have to say and why these models made our list:
Recent customers praise the Vortex Viper for its clear visuals and the range of adjustable settings. The common theme is that this scope offers exceptional precision and is adaptable to different terrains and weather conditions.
Most buyers also compliment Vortex customer service if you need help with anything.
The Vortex Viper’s advanced optics give you a clear, high-definition view of whatever you aim it at.
Extra touches such as audible turrets and a fast-focus eyepiece enable you to quickly get a clear sightline on your quarry. The reticle is illuminated and gives you a choice of 10 intensity settings, and the lens is waterproof and fog proof for consistently clear visuals.
Vortex’s ArmorTek coating on the lens works to keep it free of scratches and dirt, and the body has an anti-rust finish. You’ll also receive a three-inch sunshade for bright days, a hex wrench, and a lens cloth.
The Vortex Viper delivers ultra-precise accuracy in a user-friendly, durable package. This scope makes it simple for you to tailor the settings to your needs, and the quality build will last you for years to come.
Recent buyers comment on the Leupold VX-5HD’s optical clarity thanks to the large 44-millimeter diameter lens and light management system. Several customers report it performs exceptionally well even under poor lighting conditions.
Another noteworthy feature buyers mention is the lightweight design. At 19 ounces, the scope doesn’t weigh down already-heavy rifles.
The optics on the Leupold VX-5HD are ideal for shooting under challenging conditions without breaking your bank. The lens coating clarifies red and blue light to offer a sharp contrast in low light. Blackened edges around the lens limit glare and improve image resolution.
You have flexibility with different calibers and loads with the Custom Dial System (CDS). The side focus construction corrects for parallax error, offering greater accuracy on top of the optics.
Despite the lightweight build, it’s hardy: Argon/Krypton waterproofing cuts down on thermal shock effects to eliminate the risk of fogging.
The Leupold VX-5HD Side Focus Riflescope is a budget-friendly choice for hunters unwilling or unable to go over the $1,000 mark. It offers the precision and accuracy of costlier optics in a lightweight, resilient body.
The majority of recent buyers describe the NightForce NXS Tactical Scope as an advanced piece of equipment with premium optics. Where it concerns usage, reports say that the scope is user-friendly with easy-to-adjust turrets.
However, one buyer did complain about the scope’s hefty build: It weighs in at 32 ounces.
The large view field and four inches of eye relief make for a clear view and comfortable usage. There is 100 MOA of internal adjustment available for the utmost precision, and it works up to 2,000 yards.
Since it’s built for law enforcement members and the military, the optics are responsive: you can anticipate speed and accuracy.
Durability is another design feature worth mentioning. Aircraft-grade aluminum means it won’t dent or otherwise sustain damage easily.
Another advantage is that Nightforce optics are subject to rigorous testing: They find errors in less than 0.007 percent of the rifle scopes they build.
NightForce NXS Tactical Scope is a worthy investment if you’re after a high-end, military-grade tactical scope. Features such as the long 2,000-yard range and fine turret adjustment allow for deadly accuracy under various conditions.
The Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm has overall positive reviews from recent buyers. Most owners praise the durable Burris craftsmanship.
The illuminated reticle is another feature that customers compliment, as it offers high-definition, crisp visuals in dim lighting.
However, a few buyers report that magnification over 20 will produce a dimmer, lower-quality image.
This one-piece scope is built to withstand repeated, harsh recoils without wearing down. Since it has a triple internal spring system, it will hold zero even after vibrations and shocks. Another durability feature is the sealed, nitrogen-filled build to keep the lens fog-proof and waterproof.
It’s user-friendly, too, even for novice shooters. The 11 available brightness settings let you tailor focus to almost any condition. In terms of optics, the lens is multi-coated with Hi-Lume to limit glare and encourage light transmission.
Finally, the turrets are well-engineered and produce audible clicks, allowing for easy adjustment without guesswork.
This hardwearing, heavy-duty scope from Burris will keep up with hard-kicking rifles and last you for many hunts to come. The lens is similarly tough, and the optics are decent as long as you don’t push past 20x.
Most customers say that the Primary Arms Orion 4-14x44mm Riflescope is good value for the money, considering it’s less than $500. Buyers say that the clear optics, bullet drop compensator (BDC) reticle and sharp accuracy make it a worthwhile hunting companion.
The scope’s accuracy features include a 0.25 MOA adjustment and a multi-coated lens to stay clear under most lighting conditions. It also has a wide 44-millimeter lens for increased visibility, and it’s nitrogen-purged to avoid fogging up.
This scope is also simple to use thanks to the side-mounted adjustment knob. The elevation and windage turrets are low-profile and capped and adjust easily at the touch of a finger.
It’s sound and well-built, featuring a shockproof aluminum body that can hold up under harsh recoils and accidental drops. Primary Arms offers a limited lifetime warranty too.
Aside from being one of the most budget-friendly scopes on our list, this model by Primary Arms is an all-around decent piece of equipment. It offers quality optics, precise adjustment, and a rugged build that won’t let you down.
Let’s touch on why and how investing in the best 1000 yard scope from our list can benefit you:
With a scope, you’ll be able to see every little detail of the terrain and better spot your quarry.
The scope does the hard work for you in terms of calculations, helping you get the most accurate shot.
A quality 1000 yard scope is an extension of your rifle and should make the hunting experience easier, meaning it should be a pleasure to work with.
We hope you found the best 1000 yard scope for your needs. Aside from keeping in mind personal preferences, make sure to pick a model that’s built to last. It should have at least 9x magnification, a quality reticle, and adjustable turrets for precision.
If you still have lingering questions about selecting the best type of scope for long-range hunting, we answer two popular FAQs on the topic.
You’ll want a scope with powerful and precise magnification to keep your view clear even at longer distances. The scope should also include precision features such as adjustable turrets and a quality reticle not to lose accuracy.
Does my spotter need a spotting scope? Yeah if you have a spotter make sure he has a proper spotting scope. A good spotting scope should have a magnification of at least 20X. The higher the level of magnification, the less precise your image will be. If you pick a scope rated for higher magnifications (e.g., 30x or above), make sure the image remains sharp and clear.
Joseph Fox writes on a variety of topics ranging from reloading ammunition to gun cleaning. He has been featured on various publications like thetruthaboutguns, Sofrep & many more. Joseph is also the founder of Gunloading, where he reviews different types of reloading & firearm products available on the market.
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