In this in-depth guide, we dig deep into the world of long-range optics, unveiling the best scopes for 1000 yards. Shooting at this long-range distance calls for a combination of skill and the right gear. One indispensable tool is a riflescope. The quest for a scope ideal for 1000 yards is a pursuit of ruggedness, precision, and optical prowess to empower you with all you need to stretch the boundaries of your shooting.
The scopes in this review will help you hit targets with extreme precision at seemingly impossible distances. They will be great companions whether you are a beginner shooter enthusiastic to conquer the 1000-yard mark or an experienced shooter looking to hone their skills.
Here is a collection of the best models that will make your shooting outing a walk in the park:
1) Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm Riflescope
Vortex is a well-known scope manufacturer that produces top-shelf optics such as the Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm riflescope. This scope boasts a plethora of tactical features to make shooting at 1000 yards an easy ordeal.
First, Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm is made with user-friendliness in mind, making it ideal even for beginners. The fast-focus eyepiece allows quick focusing of the reticle for more speed of taking shots when time is of the essence.
It also features the Rapid Zero Return function that prevents the turret from dialing below sight in range. The tactical-style turrets are exposed and offer fast, accurate, and easily read adjustments for windage and elevation.
Vortex pays attention to durability, and the Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm cements this fact. It is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum and topped with a hard anodized finish that fights off corrosion while offering a low-glare matte surface for camouflage during your hunt.
Thanks to its multi-proof technology, Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm is engineered to survive heavy recoil from your firearm and severe weather conditions.
Another perk is the illuminated reticle with ten brightness settings with an off position between each setting, allowing you to tailor your sighting experience. Plus, the reticle is etched on glass for more durability and reliability.
Nonetheless, Vortex Viper PST Gen II 5-25x50mm boasts XR fully multicoated lenses that optimize light transfer for superior optical performance. The extra-low dispersion glass enhances resolution and color accuracy for high-quality images.
Features
- Precision glide erector system
- Fast focus eyepiece
- RZR Zero Stop
- Armortek coating protects the lenses from scratches and other elements
- Weatherproof and shockproof
- 30mm tube diameter
- The ED glass has XR full multicoating
- Precision force spring system
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Great clicks
- Reticle illumination
Cons
- Heavy
2) Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm Riflescope
Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm riflescope is built out of 6061-T6 aluminum, making it one of the most durable 1000-yard scopes on the market. The masterpiece is waterproof and fogproof for waterproof and fogproof integrity.
The Mark 5HD has been punisher tested, so it is designed to handle the powerful recoil your rifle produces with each trigger pull.
The lenses are scratch-resistant for ultimate glass protection, giving you a quality scope that will serve you for many years to come.
A fast-focus eyepiece is another exciting attribute of the Leupold Mark 5HD 5-25x56mm riflescope. This fast-focusing mechanism helps to focus the reticle, adding fast target acquisition.
The side focus feature helps you to easily focus the parallax, as failure to do so can be an impediment to accuracy.
What’s more, Leupold Mark 5HD harbors the Twilight Max HD Light Management System that provides extra minutes of shooting light while controlling glare for peak clarity from dusk to dawn.
The high-speed power selector with an integrated throw lever facilitates effortless magnification adjustments, so you never miss a shot.
Features
- 35mm main tube
- Side focus
- Twilight Max HD Light Management System
- A fast-focus eyepiece
- Waterproof and fogproof
- 5:1 zoom ratio
- The lenses have scratch-resistant properties
- 56mm objective lens
- Built from high-grade aluminum
Pros
- Spot on durability
- Amazing performance in low-light conditions
- Stellar optical clarity
- Great eye relief
Cons
- Price
- The parallax adjustment could go lower
3) Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm Riflescope
Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm riflescope is for shooters looking to boost their accuracy when taking long-range shots. The reticle is illuminated with eleven intensity settings to boost visibility and accuracy when taking down targets in dark backgrounds.
The tube of the Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm riflescope is sealed and nitrogen-filled to keep elements like water, fog, dirt, and dust and bay for unchanging performance in all weather conditions.
It has a one-piece tube structure for hyper durability and shockproofing to withstand the harsh recoil of your rifle. A valuable addition is the triple internal spring-tension system that enables the Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm to hold zero amidst recoil and vibrations.
The ergonomic side focus adjusts parallax from 50 yards to infinity, increasing accuracy at long distances. Plus, the turrets have a Zero Stop feature that enables you to quickly and easily revert to the initial zero without counting clicks.
The optical acuity of the Burris Xtreme Tactical 5-25x50mm riflescope is tailored with the best-in-class glass incorporating an index-matched Hi-Lume multicoating that increases the light transmission rates and minimizes glare for stellar images.
Features
- Tactical turrets for windage and elevation adjustment
- Hi-Lume multicoated lenses
- Adjustable parallax from 50 yards to infinity
- Eleven illumination settings
- Waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof
- 34mm main tube
- 5 to 4.2 inches of eye relief
- 5x zoom system
Pros
- Superb turret tracking
- Very durable
- Lovely eye relief
- The sight picture is clear and crisp
Cons
- Mushy turret knobs
4) EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm Riflescope
Another solid choice for the best scopes for 1000 yards is the EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm riflescope. The XC high-density, low-dispersion glass with anti-reflective properties optimizes light distribution for unparalleled image brightness and clarity.
The entire housing of the EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm is built from aircraft-grade aluminum and finished with anodized construction for high durability rates. O-ring seals inhibit the penetration of dust and moisture when shooting in inclement weather. Nitrogen purging prevents internal lens fogging in cold or humid conditions.
Also worth noting is that EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm has a rugged design to withstand bangs, falls, and rough handling.
A feature that sets the EOTech Vudu 5-25x50mm riflescope apart from competitors is a short focal plane design that enables you to attach either a clip-on night vision or thermal scope at the front of the device.
The elevation turret has a push/pull locking mechanism and a Zero Stop system, providing a solid and accurate return to zero after sighting in.
Features
- Single-piece aircraft-grade aluminum design
- Sealed and purged for weather-tight performance
- 34mm tube diameter
- First focal plane reticle
- Versatile 5-25x magnification
- Anti-reflective coated lenses
- Push-button illumination controls
- XC high-density glass
Pros
- Tracking capability is accurate
- Stunning clarity
- Precise adjustments
Cons
- The glass flairs badly in the sun
5)NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm Riflescope
NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm riflescope is another unit that makes reaching the 1000-yard mark seem like a fish in the barrel. It is equipped with a Digillum illuminated reticle that suits it for various conditions.
Investing in the NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm riflescope is wise, as it has a long-lasting, bombproof structure that will enhance your shooting performance and give you many years of reliability and durability.
While there are minimal chances of its breaking, the scope includes a warranty that takes care of any defects. It features capped, low-profile turrets that prevent accidental adjustments. The caps provide impact protection.
The NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm also boasts an integrated power throw lever that supports hassle-free adjusting of magnification in the heat of action. You can crank up the settings to 25x when you’re ready to take down the target.
Also, NightForce ATACR 5-25x56mm is configured with fully multicoated ED lenses that maximize brightness, clarity, resolution, and color fidelity.
Features
- A power throw lever
- The reticle is situated on the second focal plane
- Fully multicoated optics
- The glass has ED elements
- Capped turrets
- ZeroStop feature for a solid return to zero
- DigIllum digital reticle illumination
- Parallax adjustments with distance markings
Pros
- Easy and secure adjustments
- Expansive field of view
- The reticle is very fine
- Bright and clear optics
Cons
- Wallet-denting
6) ATN X-SIGHT 5 LRF 5-25x UHD Smart Day/Night Hunting Riflescope
This day/night hunting riflescope provides a 24-hour visual experience not seen in other units. It will make shooting at extremely long ranges a piece of cake as it is well-packed with features.
The ATN X-Sight 5 LRF 5-25x UHD features an Advanced Ballistic calculator that ensures you never miss a target.
Precision shooting has never been easier. With the built-in laser rangefinder, each shot will count. Also, the ATN X-Sight uses the Smart Mil-Dot reticle that enables you to program the variance between hashmarks in Mils based on your load. The reticle is dynamic and adjusts with the zoom throughout the whole magnification range.
Another great addition is the Recoil Activated Video, which captures those memorable moments while you focus on the target. Thanks to the Dual stream video, you can stream, record, and hunt simultaneously.
Features
- The magnification ranges from 5 to 25x
- Ballistic calculator
- One shot zero
- Custom reticles
- Dual stream video
- Day/night mode
- Advanced high-performance sensor
- 30mm tube diameter
Pros
- Impressive value for money
- High-performance sensor
- Quality imaging
- Impeccable eye relief
Cons
- Needs familiarity with the advanced features for effective use
7) Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm Riflescope
It is no surprise that two products from Vortex have appeared in this review as the brand is the best in the game. Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm continues the brand’s reputation of producing top-of-the-line scopes that will not let you down.
The 5-15x magnification in conjunction with the 56mm objective lens diameter provides a wide field of view and phenomenal light collection.
The MOA adjustments of the Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm provide precise elevation and windage adjustments, and the First Focal plane reticle remains in proportion to the target at any distance.
These inclusions make the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-25x56mm an ideal partner to handle long-range shooting with uncompromised accuracy and precision.
A throw lever supports instant power changes on the go. In addition, the RevStop Zero System provides a firm return to zero and the turrets have a locking mechanism to deter unwanted adjustments and deliver fast and precise adjustments.
Along with that, the Vortex Strike Eagle 5-15x56mm is fully waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof for reliability in all environments. The exterior lenses are shielded from external harm by Armortek, which is scratch, water, dirt, and oil repellant.
Features
- Generous 5-25x magnification
- 56mm objective lens
- 7 inches of eye relief
- The structure is made from aircraft-grade aluminum
- Extra-low dispersion glass
- A throw lever for fast magnification changes
- Glass-etched reticle
- The lenses are coated with multiple layers to boost light transmission
- Fast focus eyepiece enhances target acquisition speed
Pros
- Solid build quality
- Super clear optics
- Audible adjustment clicks
Cons
- Tight parallax knob
Factors To Consider When Choosing the Best Scopes for 1000 Yards
Here are some main factors to consider when purchasing the best scopes for 1000 yards:
Magnification
You need a scope with appropriate magnification capabilities to hit targets at 1000 yards. Get a scope with at least 18x for effective performance. Also remember that high magnification implies less field of view, so it might be harder to hunt moving targets.
Durability
The scope will be exposed to rigorous conditions in the field; that’s why you need a highly robust riflescope. The best scopes for 1000 yards are crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum and are waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof. A scope that is sturdy will withstand drops and bangs and remain untouched.
Lens Quality
Checking the quality of the lens is paramount when choosing long-range scopes. A fully multicoated lens will be handy as it shields the glass and keeps it clear for stunning views. The lens should also be scratch-resistant for longer-lasting use.
Adjustments
Shooting at 1000 yards requires plenty of adjustments. Finding accurate windage and elevation turrets is vital to land accurate shots. The turrets should have audible and tactile clicks to alert you once you have made adjustments. A parallax adjustment knob is also useful as it minimizes misses.
Cost
Most scopes for 1000 yards are heftily priced which is justified by their impressive performance. You’ll be lucky to find one that is super inexpensive but it is advised to save up if you really want to invest in a top-notch model.
Objective Lens
This is the size of the lens at the end of the scope and responsible for gathering light for clearer images. The more light it gathers, the better your views will be. A scope designed with a 50mm to 56mm objective lens will collect more light than a 40mm one. However, it will be heavier.
Best Scopes for 1000 Yards FAQs
1)How Much Should I Spend on A Scope?
Spend however much you can afford. There is no fixed amount of money you should spend on a scope, as it all boils down to your preferences. For newbies, a $300 to $500 range is acceptable as scopes within this range are very capable.
2) Is An Illuminated Reticle Always Necessary?
No, reticle illumination is not a must have in a scope. However, it is beneficial if you are hunting in poorly lit scenarios. It is also useful to have an illuminated reticle if the reticle blends with the target so you can see it more clearly.
Related:
Final Remarks
The best scopes for 1000 yards expounded in this review are the epitome of precision, excellence, and clarity. Investing in any of them will help you reach targets at far away distances with confidence and precision, stretching your shooting skills to new heights. Remember that the best scope comes down to your needs and preferences.