Looking for the best scopes under 100? You are in the right place. This post explores the best scopes under $100 available on the market.
When you’re on a tight budget, finding a reliable rifle scope under $100 might seem like a challenge, but it’s far from impossible. Today’s market offers several budget-friendly scopes that don’t sacrifice essential performance.
These affordable options deliver clear optics, decent build quality, and user-friendly features suitable for casual target shooting, plinking, or even light hunting. With the right choice, a budget-friendly scope under 100 will enhance your shooting accuracy and experience.
Best Scopes under 100
Here are the best scopes under $100 that offer real value, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get solid performance on your rifle. Let’s take a look.
1.CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics
The CVLIFE 3-9×40 Optics R4 Reticle Crosshair Scope is the best scope under 100. It offers impressive performance for its budget-friendly price point, making it a solid choice for entry-level shooters and hunters.
With a magnification range of 3x to 9x and a 40mm objective lens, it delivers a versatile zoom capability suitable for short to mid-range targeting. The R4 reticle is clear and easy to align, providing quick target acquisition without unnecessary complexity.
Furthermore, the build quality is surprisingly sturdy, featuring an anodized aluminum construction that holds up well against recoil and outdoor elements. The scope also comes with mounting rings, simplifying installation for most standard rifles.
In terms of performance, the CVLIFE scope maintains decent clarity and brightness in various lighting conditions. It also offer consistent accuracy and reliable zero retention for typical hunting or recreational shooting tasks and the adjustments for windage and elevation are tactile and responsive.
Pros
- Straightforward sight-in process
- Reliable build quality
- Lightweight
- Ease of use
Cons
- Lacks the edge-to-edge sharpness and low-light performance of premium optics
2. Pinty 3-9X40 Red Green
The Pinty 3-9X40 Red Green Rangefinder Illuminated Optical Rifle Scope is a budget-friendly scope that delivers solid performance for beginner to intermediate shooters.
Its adjustable 3-9x magnification offers a versatile range for both close and medium-distance targeting, making it suitable for hunting, target shooting, and even plinking. The scope also features a built-in rangefinder reticle that helps with quick distance estimation.
Regarding reticle, the illuminated reticle comes in both red and green with multiple brightness settings, allowing for improved visibility in various lighting conditions.
Construction-wise, the scope is durable with a shockproof and weather-resistant build, which holds up well against moderate recoil and unpredictable outdoor environments. Furthermore, adjustments for windage and elevation are straightforward and generally hold zero well after sighting in.
To top it all off, the scope features a 40mm objective lens that provides decent light transmission, offering a clear and reasonably sharp image for its price range.
Pros
- Good value for the price
- Lightweight
- Built-in rangefinder
- Illuminated reticle
Cons
- Narrow eye relief
3. Pinty 2.5-10×40
The Pinty 2.5-10×40 scope is a great optic for beginner to intermediate shooters who want a feature-packed optic for tactical training, range use, or general-purpose hunting without breaking the bank.
This rifle scope stands out with its dual red and green illuminated reticle, allowing for excellent target acquisition across a variety of lighting conditions. The Mil-dot reticle offers enhanced aiming precision, making it suitable for both tactical use and mid-range hunting applications.
Moreover, the adjustable 2.5-10x magnification range provides flexibility for different shooting distances, while the integrated laser sight adds an extra edge for quick target locking in close-quarter situations. The scope also comes with a built-in 40mm objective lens that ensures decent light transmission, contributing to a clearer and brighter sight picture.
Durability and ease of use are also strong suits of the Pinty 2.5-10×40. Built with a solid metal construction, it is shockproof, water-resistant, and fog-resistant for reliable use under various environmental conditions. Additionally, the windage and elevation turrets are crisp and responsive, allowing for quick zeroing and easy adjustments in the field.
Pros
- A laser module that is straightforward to use and adjustable for windage and elevation
- Holds zero fairly well on rifles with moderate recoil
- Lightweight
- Solid metal construction
Cons
- Not intended for high-end precision shooting
4. Bushnell Banner 2 Hunting Riflescopes DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle
As one of the best scopes under 100, the Bushnell Banner 2 Hunting Riflescope with DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle delivers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and affordability.
Its standout feature, the DOA Quick Ballistic Reticle, is designed to provide fast, intuitive holdover points that make it easier to adjust for bullet drop at longer distances. This makes the scope ideal for medium to long-range hunting scenarios where quick target acquisition and accuracy are crucial.
Optically, the glass is surprisingly clear for a scope in this price range, and the multi-coated optics help improve light transmission in low-light conditions such as dawn or dusk. Furthermore, the 3-9x magnification range offers versatility for a variety of game and terrain, whether you’re stalking deer in thick woods or taking shots across open fields.
Durability is another strong suit of the Banner 2. Built to withstand the elements, it features a waterproof and fog-proof construction, with a shock-resistant body that holds zero even under the recoil of heavier hunting calibers. On top of that, the adjustments for windage and elevation are tactile and easy to dial in, and the fast-focus eyepiece helps ensure a sharp reticle every time you shoulder your rifle.
Pros
- Straightforward mounting process
- Pairs well with most hunting rifles without adding too much weight
- Great value for the price
- Exceptional low-light performance
Cons
- Stiff reticle adjustment knob
5. SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x40mm
If you are a budget-conscious shooter looking for a capable and trustworthy optic, the SIG SAUER Buckmasters 3-9x40mm riflescope suits you. It is a smart and practical choice that delivers more than expected at its price point.
Designed in partnership with Buckmasters, this scope reflects SIG’s commitment to clarity, ruggedness, and ease of use. Its 3-9x magnification range is ideal for everything from dense woods to open fields, providing excellent versatility for short to mid-range shooting.
Furthermore, the 40mm objective lens lets in a good amount of light, delivering crisp, clear images even in low-light conditions like dawn and dusk. The BDC reticle is housed on the second focal plane and stays the same size regardless of magnification, helping shooters maintain precise aim without distraction.
The scope is also built to last. With a durable one-inch tube, it boasts dependable waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof construction, making it well-suited to rough outdoor conditions. Additionally, windage and elevation adjustments are smooth and easy to dial in, with a tactile feel that reinforces confidence in each setting.
Pros
- Reliable performance
- Clear glass
- Intuitive controls
- Solid construction
- Lightweight
Cons
- Non-illuminated
6. Monstrum Guardian 3-9x Rifle Scope
Next is the Monstrum Guardian 3-9x Rifle Scope with Illuminated MOA Reticle. This rifle scope offers an impressive blend of affordability, functionality, and durability for budget-conscious shooters and hunters alike.
Solid construction is its selling point. Built with aircraft-grade aluminum and a sealed, nitrogen-purged body, the scope holds up well in challenging weather conditions and rugged terrain.
To complement the robust construction, this scope features a 3-9x magnification range ideal for mid-range shooting, offering a wide enough field of view for scanning and enough zoom to reach out with confidence. The lenses are surprisingly clear and the adjustable objective provides reliable parallax correction, which enhances accuracy when shooting at varying distances.
Another feature that truly sets the Monstrum Guardian apart is its illuminated MOA reticle, available in both red and green. It improves target acquisition in low-light conditions. On top of that, the reticle is etched onto the glass, ensuring it remains visible even without illumination.
Pros
- The turret adjustments are tactile and hold zero well after repeated use
- Excellent value and performance
- Rugged construction
- Illuminated, glass-etched reticle
Cons
- Poor low-light optical clarity
7. MidTen 4-16×50
The MidTen 4-16×50 AO Tactical Rifle Scope is our last recommendation for the best scopes under 100. It delivers solid performance for budget-conscious shooters seeking versatility and enhanced accuracy.
This rifle scope is well-built with a durable aluminum alloy body that’s both shock- and weather-resistant. The 4-16x magnification range gives users flexibility for close to mid-to-long-range targeting, while the large 50mm objective lens allows for better light transmission, providing a bright and clear image even during low-light hours.
More importantly, the adjustable objective (AO) and illuminated reticle offering red and green brightness settings further boost precision, especially when shooting in different environments or against complex backgrounds.
Functionally, the MidTen scope holds zero surprisingly well, even after moderate recoil from repeated firing. Furthermore, the windage and elevation adjustments are smooth and responsive, with audible clicks that help fine-tune targeting without frustration. Mounting is also straightforward, with included rings that are compatible with most standard Picatinny rails.
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Ease of installation
- Holds zero well
- Sturdy and reliable construction
Cons
- The eye relief is though adequate is not the most forgiving
How to Choose the Best Scopes under 100
When choosing the best scope under $100, it’s essential to prioritize features that offer the most value for your budget. Consider these factors before settling for any product:
Optical Clarity
This is foundation of a good scope, especially in budget-friendly models. Look for scopes with fully multi-coated lenses, which maximize light transmission while minimizing glare and reflection. This leads to brighter, sharper images, particularly crucial during low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. Clear glass not only improves your accuracy but also reduces eye fatigue over extended use.
Magnification Range
Your choice of magnification should align with your shooting needs. Fixed magnification scopes often offer better optical clarity and durability at lower prices, making them ideal for short to mid-range shooting.
On the other hand, variable magnification scopes provide flexibility, allowing you to adjust zoom levels based on the shooting distance or target size, perfect for hunters or shooters engaging targets at varying ranges.
Durability
The best scopes under 100 must withstand the elements and recoil. Fortunately, many affordable models now offer shockproof, waterproof, and fog-resistant designs. These features ensure the scope performs reliably in harsh environments, from rainy forests to dusty ranges.
Reticle Type
Reticles (crosshairs) greatly influence target acquisition. Duplex reticles are a popular choice in this price range due to their simplicity and ease of use, especially for beginners. They provide fast target acquisition without clutter. While BDC (Bullet Drop Compensator) or mil-dot reticles offer more precision at long ranges, they may be harder to find or less accurate at lower price points due to budget optics’ limitations.
Turret and Adjustments
Precise windage and elevation adjustments are essential for accurate shooting. Look for scopes with tactile, audible turret clicks that track consistently and return to zero. Inexpensive scopes sometimes suffer from mushy or inconsistent turrets, so prioritize models with good build quality and user-friendly adjustment knobs for reliable field performance.
Eye Relief
Eye relief is the distance between your eye and the scope lens. It is critical for safety and comfort, especially on rifles with significant recoil. The best scopes under 100 should have a long eye relief that prevents “scope bite” and allow more flexible positioning for those using high-powered or bolt-action rifles.
Mounting Compatibility
No matter the price, a scope is useless if it won’t mount to your rifle. Check that the scope tube diameter (commonly 1-inch or 30mm) and the overall length fit your mounting setup. Confirm compatibility with your existing rings or rail system to avoid the hassle and expense of buying additional accessories.
FAQs
- What magnification should I expect in this price range?
Most of the best scopes under 100 offer variable magnification between 3-9x, which is suitable for short to medium-range shooting. Some fixed-power scopes are also available, typically in the 4x or 6x range, offering simplicity and clarity.
- Are scopes under $100 durable enough for recoil from larger calibers?
Yes. Most budget scopes under $100 handle mild recoil, but many may struggle with heavier calibers like .308 or 30-06. Look for scopes specifically rated as shockproof or tested on higher calibers if you plan to mount one on a centerfire rifle.
- Do cheaper scopes hold zero well?
This varies by model. While many budget scopes hold zero fairly well on low-recoil firearms, some lose it after a few rounds or during transport.
Final Thoughts
To wrap it up, we hope this buying guide has helped you find the ideal scope for your needs. While the best scopes under 100 may not have the premium features or ruggedness of higher-end models, most models provide solid performance at this price point. Look at the features that each rifle scope brings to the table and choose wisely.